Coping and support

Living with any chronic illness can be difficult, and it's normal to feel angry, depressed or discouraged at times. Progressive supranuclear palsy presents special problems because it can cause changes in your brain that make you feel anxious or laugh or cry for no reason. Progressive supranuclear palsy can also become extremely frustrating as walking, talking and eating become more difficult.

To manage the stress of living with progressive supranuclear palsy, consider these suggestions:

• Maintain a strong support system of friends and family
• Contact a support group, for yourself or for family members
• Discuss your feelings and concerns about living with progressive supranuclear palsy with your doctor or a counselor

For caregivers

Caring for someone with progressive supranuclear palsy can be difficult physically and emotionally. It's not easy to juggle tasks as you try to adapt to the constantly fluctuating moods and physical needs that accompany this condition. Remember that these moods and physical capabilities may change from hour to hour and are not under the person's conscious control.