How does multiple sclerosis cause depression? how and what is to the best way to treat depression in a patient with multiple sclerosis?

NMS but...: You need to find out whether your physical limitation from the MS vs coexisting depression is the basic issue. It has been noted that regular exercise reduces MS problem (also depression ) as well as lower salt intake, cooler weather, and vitamin D3 supplement. You will need to work with your neurologist and mental health professional to sort this out.

Many ways: Depression can occur from damage to the myelin in areas of the brain involved in emotion, in response to to pain or sleep deprivation, can be a side effect of some medications used in MS and can occur just because someone is susceptible regardless of the MS. Treatment will depend on the individual patient's cause of depression. http://www.nationalmssociety.org/Symptoms-Diagnosis/MS-Symptoms/Depression

Suggestions: MS patients have emotional reactions to their illness, and depression is NOT uncommon. The brain lesions can alter neurotransmitter functions, and thus require medication to re-balance. Would usually suggest anti-depressant meds early in the course of depression, and have found counseling to be of great benefit.