RRMS Anger and Frustration

[Jaz1977]

Diagnosed 2 years ago aged 54. First known signs appeared 4 years ago (double vision and a numbness in my right side of my face - double vision now gone). I am relatively lucky, in good health, I take my medication, feel tired at times. My problem is coping with a feeling that appears roughly every 2 to 3 days, a feeling of anger/frustration which I take out generally by having a stupid argument with my wife, she is great, does not deserve my stupidity, there is no rationale on my part, generally the issue is stupid, of no consequence and while my anger is not bad (I do not swearing or use aggression) it is still stupid and unwarranted. I have had some specialist help, but it still does not stop me from feeling the way I do or curtailing my actions/feelings. Any thoughts, suggestions?

[BOK2Bjan]

Hi - I can relate! I've had ms for many years - am 62, so post menopausal, lol, and I have many other serious health conditions - but I have never had the sudden anger and frustration that I've developed in the last few months.

My ms is progressive and is effecting me cognitively - so I was wondering the same thing. It's a TERRIBLE feeling! I hope you get some answers and relief. Blessings. Jan

[Jaz1977]

Thanks Jan, working hard with loved ones to find a way to take a time out, stop the anger/frustration by stopping myself extenuating the feeling, easier said than done, but I am determined to do it. Please let me know if you have any breakthroughs, it is what it is, pretty terrible, just got to find a way to minimise, no two sufferers being the same makes it even harder!

[aspen2]

There could be a variety of reasons for this.

MS itself, and lesion load, can cause emotional lability and pseudo bulbar effect.

Having ms places limits on us.  There can be guilt, anger and a lot to process.  Have you seen a counselor to talk about what's going on?  Sometimes they help us get to the root of why we're coping as we are.  You have mentioned that you "have had" help, but I find this an ongoing necessity.

Good for you for being self aware and recognizing what is happening!  I'm sure your wife appreciates this as well :).

[Jaz1977]

Thanks A, my New Year resolution is to talk with specialists again, I have to find a way to counteract when I feel the frustration appearing, I just know I can, thanks again.

[aspen2]

You're very welcome.  I find it also helps to have a support group, whether real life or online.

Preparing a strategy ahead of time might also be an idea.  

When you feel the tension mount, have ready at hand (adult colouring book? TV remote? recumbant bicycle? hobby? good book? other?) and give yourself a 15 minute time out to immerse yourself.

This  might help you meditate/be mindful and get you back to where you need to be.