UAE’s National Multiple Sclerosis Society launches digital guides to empower people living with MS and other chronic conditions

Living with multiple sclerosis (MS) is more than just managing physical symptoms — it's about navigating the mental and emotional toll that comes with it. Recognizing this, the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS) has rolled out three new digital guides to support people with MS and other chronic conditions. Designed to provide practical advice, these resources aim to make life easier, whether it's managing mental health, eating well, or explaining MS to children.

The guides were unveiled at the 5th Abu Dhabi Integrated Mental Health Conference (ADIMHC), where Dr. Ruqqia Mir, a Consultant Neurologist at Yas Clinic Khalifa City, highlighted their role in bridging gaps in MS care. "Mental health is a fundamental part of MS management," she emphasized. "By integrating mental wellness strategies with clinical care, we can significantly improve the quality of life for people living with MS."

How does it work?

NMSS's latest initiative represents a a well-rounded toolkit designed for real-world challenges.

• The Mental Wellness Handbook and Reflection Journal arms individuals with mindfulness techniques, journaling exercises, and goal-setting activities to support emotional well-being.
• The Nutrition Guide goes beyond general dietary advice, offering regionally inspired recipes and ingredient swaps tailored to MS and autoimmune conditions.
• Explaining MS to Your Children Guide, endorsed by the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority (ECA), breaks down complex medical concepts into kid-friendly conversations, ensuring families can discuss MS in an age-appropriate way.

All three guides are available for free download on the NMSS website, making them accessible to anyone who needs them.

Why does it matter?

For many people with MS, the condition isn't just a battle of the body — it's a battle of the mind. Depression and anxiety are common, yet mental health support is often sidelined in MS care. The NMSS guides tackle this head-on, integrating mental wellness with medical treatment.

"These new guides are a powerful resource for individuals, caregivers, and healthcare professionals navigating the complexities of MS and mental health," Dr. Mir explained. By addressing everything from nutrition to emotional well-being, NMSS is making sure people with MS have the tools to take control of their health.

More broadly, the initiative underscores a growing push for patient-centered care — where mental health isn't an afterthought but a core component of treatment.

The context

As the UAE strengthens its healthcare infrastructure, there's a growing recognition that chronic illness care must go beyond medications and hospital visits. NMSS is pushing for a more holistic approach, one that brings together healthcare providers, insurers, policymakers, and advocacy groups.

At the ADIMHC conference, NMSS called for stronger cross-sector partnerships to build a more sustainable and equitable mental health framework. The takeaway? Addressing MS isn't just about treating symptoms — it's about creating a support system that helps people thrive.

With these guides, NMSS is laying down a roadmap for better MS care, proving that sometimes, the right information can be just as powerful as the right treatment.