Tips for Managing Anxiety with LEMS

Patients with Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS) can feel a loss of control over their lives after being diagnosed with a chronic disease.

Dealing with new physical challenges, chronic pain, and fatigue make patients more likely to experience stress, anxiety, and depression. Because treatment is usually focused on the disease’s physical symptoms, signs of anxiety may go unnoticed. Here are some tips that may help when you’re experiencing anxiety:

Think positively

Try to put your worries into perspective, and replace negative thoughts with positive ones. It’s easy to focus on negatives, so find strategies to focus on the positives.

Do your best without seeking perfection

Set realistic goals, and celebrate your successes without striving for perfection.

Get enough sleep

Caffeine and alcohol can worsen stress and anxiety, so limit your daily intake and get enough sleep. For some people, this may mean setting aside time for naps during the day.

Eat well-balanced meals

Eat nutritious meals, and keep snacks handy. Hunger can sometimes make things feel worse.

Exercise daily

Even a little daily activity can improve mood and mental state. If you are unsure of your physical ability, talk with your physical therapist or treatment team to build an appropriate exercise plan.

Find a support group

Find others who understand what you’re going through, and meet with them frequently. Talk about what’s causing you stress so that your anxiety doesn’t build up.

Last updated: Sept. 13, 2019

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Lambert-Eaton News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.