Pediatric multiple sclerosis: Perspectives from adolescents and their families.

Abstract

Supporting young people with pediatric multiple sclerosis can be challenging for families and health care providers. Adolescents may be more resilient than adults in reaction to the diagnosis but can have more difficulty planning for their futures. Appropriate, sensitive, and focused health provision should include consideration of the perspective of both the patient and parents. Multidisciplinary management strategies are often effective, as are referrals to programs that enhance individual and family coping and strengthen a sense of community.