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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.

Unemployed

A MyMSTeam Member asked a question đź’­
Preston, UK

Hello everyone, I hope you are well,

Does anyone who can no longer work feel a sense of missing something? Like I feel a burden on my family some times, I feel angry too that having MS has taken away my nursing career.

Relying on government funding and then getting penalised for it constantly. I just feel lost sat at home all the time, its lonely and isolating. But because my health issues are so unpredictable I just cannot work.

My neuro also once said to me that hes seen people with… read more

August 19
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Answer Summary

Members responded with deep empathy to someone feeling lost, lonely, and burdened after MS forced them to leave their nursing career, with... Read more

Members responded with deep empathy to someone feeling lost, lonely, and burdened after MS forced them to leave their nursing career, with many agreeing that a doctor's comparison to others with 'worse MS' was hurtful and unprofessional. Several members shared that stepping away from work was a painful identity shift, but therapy, acceptance, and creative outlets like writing, music, or painting helped ease the transition. A recurring theme was the importance of self-compassion, doing what is right for your own body, and leaning on community when the healthcare system and workplace feel unsupportive.

A MyMSTeam Member

Seriously uncool for that doc to say that. You can only do what you are able! Don't let anyone make you feel bad. Take care 🙂

August 20
A MyMSTeam Member

@ Kay-lee
I'd suggest some form of a creative outlet.. writing, music, painting.. of course I should take my own advice too. When things calm down (if they ever will ) I will, and I try to be polite when ppl ask why I havent made any songs etc lately.. the inspiration will come ❤️

August 21
A MyMSTeam Member

@A MyMSTeam Member that was a very unprofessional and cruel thing for your doctor to say. It’s not always easy to do what’s best for yourself. You do you and feel good about yourself. If you ever feel the need to work, maybe you can do something online but that’s completely up to you. Hoping things will improve for you soon.

August 20
A MyMSTeam Member

@A MyMSTeam Member what a horrible thing for a doctor to say, they should be supportive. Between my work and my neurologist I knew it was time to go on disability and even though I didn't want to it was for the best. I'd probably find a different doctor if I could. My company helped get the social security for me which was good.

August 20
MyMSTeam

Losing the ability to work due to MS is a profound loss — and it makes complete sense to grieve it. A career isn't just a paycheck; it's tied to identity, purpose, social connection, and routine. When that changes, the emotional impact can be just as heavy as the physical one.

Many MyMSTeam members have shared this exact Show Full Answer

Losing the ability to work due to MS is a profound loss — and it makes complete sense to grieve it. A career isn't just a paycheck; it's tied to identity, purpose, social connection, and routine. When that changes, the emotional impact can be just as heavy as the physical one.

Many MyMSTeam members have shared this exact experience. As one put it simply: "MS is a full-time job." That feeling of isolation and lost identity is real, and it's something many people in the MS community deeply understand. The good news is there are ways to rebuild a sense of purpose and connection. Here are some things that can help:

- Volunteering — contributing to something meaningful without the pressure of employment
- Joining an MS support group — connecting with others who truly get it
- Exploring a new hobby — or even turning an existing one into something more
- Staying physically active when possible, even in small ways
- Keeping a regular sleep schedule and balanced diet to support overall well-being

One MyMSTeam member found that after leaving full-time work, volunteer work in a relaxed, unstructured environment became ideal for them. It's also worth knowing that unemployment can increase the risk of depression in people with MS, so staying socially connected is especially important — not just emotionally, but for managing MS itself.

Talking to a mental health professional or MS counselor can also be a powerful step. Some MS centers even have counselors on staff specifically to help navigate these life transitions. Reaching out to your neurologist or MS care team is a great place to start.

August 19

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