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Real members of MyMSTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

How do you deal with explaining symptoms without having to tell everyone about the diagnosis?

A MyMSTeam Member asked a question 💭
Cardiff, UK

I’m in the early stages of diagnosis.
My main issues are sudden fatigue and word finding/concentration in conversations. I can come across, at these times, as disinterested.
I’m really not ready, in my own head, to tell everyone what’s going on (I have a close group around me who are aware).
How do you deal with explaining that you’re being rude without disclosing all?

May 13
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Reactions
A MyMSTeam Member

Hello @A MyMSTeam Member 🤗 It’s hard knowing what to say in those moments. Are you working? I used to deflect to my colleagues - I would say something like ‘sorry I had a blank moment just then, does that ever happen to you?’ I found others loved the invitation to talk about themselves and I could then keep quiet! 💜

May 13
MyMSTeam

First of all, it's completely valid to share only what you're comfortable with — there's no rulebook that says you owe anyone a full explanation. Many people in similar situations choose to share selectively, and that's a perfectly healthy approach.

For the fatigue and concentration moments specifically, a few low-key Show Full Answer

First of all, it's completely valid to share only what you're comfortable with — there's no rulebook that says you owe anyone a full explanation. Many people in similar situations choose to share selectively, and that's a perfectly healthy approach.

For the fatigue and concentration moments specifically, a few low-key strategies can help without revealing your diagnosis:

- Keep it simple and relatable: Something like "Sorry, I'm running on empty today" or "My brain's a bit foggy — long week!" is honest without being revealing.
- Use humor as a deflector: A light "Don't mind me, I've temporarily misplaced my words!" can ease tension and keep things light.
- A brief, pre-emptive heads-up: If you sense a foggy moment coming, a quick "Bear with me, I'm a bit scattered today" sets the tone without explanation.
- Lean on your close circle: Having even one trusted person nearby who can subtly cover for you in social situations can take the pressure off. As one MyMSTeam member wisely put it, choosing *when and what* you share is entirely your right. You don't have to educate everyone — sometimes just taking the pressure off yourself is the best move.

The goal is honesty without oversharing. You're not being rude — you're managing something real, and a small, casual comment in the moment is often enough to smooth things over without opening a bigger conversation you're not ready for yet.

May 13
A MyMSTeam Member

Because I'm getting older (72) I usually just blame things on age. People understand that.

May 13

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