I am a caregiver of someone with MS

Caring for someone you love – someone who has multiple sclerosis – is a role that many people assume willingly and without question. Whether you are a spouse, partner, parent, family member or friend providing care on a regular basis to someone with MS, your role is an important one and means a great deal to the person with MS.

The bond between a person with a chronic disease such as MS and the person who provides care, can be very strong and very positive. At the same time, caregiving can be physically and emotionally exhausting. Some caregivers may feel that they have no time for their own needs and interests. They may feel guilty for being occasionally resentful or angry over life with MS, or for thinking about their own well-being when the person they care deeply for is dealing with multiple sclerosis.

No matter the extent of your caregiving, it is critical that you do not neglect your own self-care. The MS Society recognizes the incredible contribution that caregivers make to the fight against MS at a personal level and we are committed to supporting you.

The MS Society can be a valuable source of information about multiple sclerosis and provide resources and support group contacts for caregivers like yourself, to help you effectively manage the ongoing stress of providing care.

For information on possible caregiver resources in your area, contact your MS Society division office at 1-800-268-7582 or visit In Your Community to locate the nearest MS Society office to you.

Visit our section on Multiple Sclerosis to learn more about the disease including information on symptoms and tips for living with MS.

Other useful resources for caregivers:

On June 4th, 2008 in partnership with the Care-ring Voice Network the MS Society of Canada offered a national tele-learning session that connected caregivers and families to information and support. Here is the presentation and biographies from this call for your information.

MS in focus magazine - Caregiving and MS

Caregiver Profiles - Caregivers from across the country share their personal experiences of caring for someone living with MS.

A Guide for Caregivers - This guide provides information on practical issues faced by caregivers. A resource list is included.

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