How should I tell people I have MS?
At some point after your diagnosis, you may wish or need to tell people you have MS. This is a personal decision. Whilst one person may find it a relief to immediately share their diagnosis, others may prefer to wait until they have had time to digest the news and become more comfortable with it themselves.

There is no single strategy for telling people you have MS. Everyone is different and has their own dynamics in their personal and work relationships.

Timing is important when telling others you have MS. You do not need to rush into telling people; wait till you are ready. Think carefully about how you will tell people and about when would be an appropriate time to talk, especially when you tell family and close friends. Although you are the one with MS, try not to forget that your diagnosis will also affect their lives.

People may not react as you would expect, no matter how well you know them. Whilst many people are supportive and understanding, others may be upset or appear surprisingly blasé.

Who should know legally?
If you are a driver the law says you need to tell the DVLA that you have been diagnosed with MS. Provided a doctor confirms that the person is fit to drive, their driving licence will either stay as it is or be renewable every three years.

You do not normally need to tell your employer except where there may be a health and safety risk or where you wish to have reasonable adjustments made under the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA).

For most people there are no other legal requirements about who you should tell. But you should remember to check your insurance policies to see if any of these are affected.