MS diagnosis: how facing fear changed my life with MS | S8E22

An MS diagnosis can bring fear, uncertainty and difficult questions about the future.  In this episode of Living Well with MS, Geoff Allix speaks with Patrick Bevan, who spent 16 years hiding from his multiple sclerosis diagnosis before embracing a lifestyle approach that transformed how he thinks about living with MS.  Patrick shares how fear, anxiety and denial shaped his decisions for years, why a relapse became the catalyst for change, and how exercise, healthy eating, community and self-compassion helped him regain a sense of control.  They also discuss living with ADHD alongside MS, the challenges of building sustainable habits, and why connecting with others can make such a difference after diagnosis.  Whether you're newly diagnosed with MS or have been living with it for many years, Patrick's honest reflections offer hope, practical encouragement and a reminder that a diagnosis does not define your future.  Keep reading for the key episode takeaways and Patrick’s bio.   00:00 Patrick's MS diagnosis and the beginning of his journey  03:34 Living with hidden fear for sixteen years  05:18 Why fear delayed lifestyle changes and treatment  07:02 The turning point that changed everything  10:19 Challenging public perceptions of living with MS  11:39 How fear shaped work, confidence and relationships  13:18 Living with both ADHD and multiple sclerosis  15:00 Finding motivation through the Overcoming MS Exercise Circle  18:03 Which lifestyle changes were easiest—and hardest—to sustain  21:11 Balancing entrepreneurship with protecting long-term health  25:02 Patrick's advice for anyone newly diagnosed with MS  Connect with Patrick on LinkedIn  Learn more about Change Alchemy  New to Overcoming MS? Learn why lifestyle matters in MS - begin your journey at our 'Get started' page Connect with others following Overcoming MS on the Live Well Hub Visit the Overcoming MS website Follow us on social media: Facebook Instagram YouTube Pinterest Don’t miss out: Subscribe to this podcast and never miss an episode. Listen to our archive of Living Well with MS here. Make sure you sign up to our newsletter to hear our latest tips and news about living a full and happy life with MS. Support us: If you enjoy this podcast and want to help us continue creating future podcasts, please leave a donation here. Feel free to share your comments and suggestions for future guests and episode topics by emailing [email protected]. If you like Living Well with MS, please leave a 5-star review.