Aptitud mental: Fortalecer la mente como si fuera un músculo

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Con frecuencia hablamos de la importancia de la salud física. Entendemos que es una parte importante de nuestro bienestar general y que existen muchas formas de apoyarla, por ejemplo: usar las escaleras en lugar del ascensor, salir a caminar a diario o estirarnos mientras vemos la televisión. La aptitud mental sigue el mismo concepto, pero se enfoca en nuestro bienestar mental y emocional. Es la práctica de ejercitar la mente como si fuera un músculo. La aptitud mental implica entrenar nuestros pensamientos y respuestas para promover la resiliencia, reducir la ansiedad, mejorar la regulación emocional y aumentar la tolerancia al estrés.

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Mental Fitness: Strengthening the Mind Like a Muscle

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We often talk about the importance of physical fitness. We understand that it is an important part of our overall well-being, and there are many ways to support it, such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator, going for a daily walk, or stretching while watching television. Mental fitness follows the same concept but focuses on our mental and emotional well-being. It is the practice of exercising our mind as we would a muscle. Mental fitness involves training our thoughts and responses to promote resilience, reduce anxiety, improve emotional regulation, and increase tolerance to stress.

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Introducing MSAA’s President and CEO, Amanda Montague 

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The Multiple Sclerosis Association of America (MSAA) is extremely proud to announce the appointment of Amanda Montague, EdM, to the position of President and CEO! For more than 20 years, Ms. Montague has been a dynamic leader at MSAA, playing a vital role within the organization’s senior management team for much of that time.

MSAA President and CEO, Amanda Montague, EdM 

Previously, Ms. Montague served as MSAA’s Interim President and CEO and prior to that role, was MSAA’s Chief Mission Officer for several years. In this key position, Ms. Montague spearheaded a number of innovative programs, developed countless educational initiatives, and provided crucial strategic direction for the organization. In addition, she has developed meaningful partnerships with leading healthcare professionals to better serve the MS community.

“After serving the Multiple Sclerosis Association of America for 21 years, it is an incredible honor to be named President and CEO of an organization that has shaped both my professional journey and my heart,” says MSAA President and CEO Amanda Montague. “MSAA’s mission is extraordinary because it is rooted in compassion, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to improving lives today. I am excited to lead MSAA into its next chapter of growth, collaboration, and meaningful change.” 

A dedicated and accomplished leader, Ms. Montague will continue to serve as a powerful advocate for the MS community and help lead the organization’s strategic priorities focusing on growth and impact. Ms. Montague has consistently provided vital direction for innovative programs and services that significantly enhance MS care and treatment protocols. Her profound commitment and clear vision will further advance MSAA’s mission of improving lives today for people living with MS and their loved ones.

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Maybe You’re Already Doing It… 

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By Angel Blair

I think it goes without saying how important one’s overall health is. Though when we talk about health and wellness, we often just think of the physical aspects. But a crucial part of our well-being relies on mental health and wellness too, and these can unfortunately get overlooked at times. When thinking about wellness plans and regimens, mental health may not be considered a top priority or major piece of the puzzle. But it should, as mental wellness is just as important as other parts of our health system. 

Nurturing mental health needs can be challenging at times, but there are ways to help improve it that may already be done in your day-to-day. It doesn’t always have to be a grand act or monumental feat that’s accomplished, but rather small gestures or behaviors done daily to foster good mental health. If I find myself overwhelmed or stressed, there are a few go-to acts that I engage in to center myself and to help refocus. 

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Life Beyond the Relapse: Real Stories of Living with SPMS

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If you are living with secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS), you know that life feels different from how it used to be. For years, you might have lived in the RRMS world, waiting for an attack, treating it, and mostly bouncing back. But SPMS changes the rules. It’s less about the sudden storms and more about a slow, steady tide.

We looked at stories and forum posts from people walking this same path. Here is what they say life with SPMS is really like, in their own words.

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Protecting My Peace: Small Habits That Help Me Navigate Life with MS

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By Nicole Robinson

Living with multiple sclerosis has taught me a lot, especially when it comes to protecting my mental and emotional well-being. 

When I was first diagnosed, I didn’t have it all together. There were moments of confusion, frustration, and a lot of questions about what my life would look like moving forward. While I still don’t have all the answers, I’ve learned that small intentional habits can make a big difference in how I show up each day. 

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Team MSAA: Building Community, Strength, and Support

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At the Multiple Sclerosis Association of America (MSAA), community is at the heart of everything we do. One of the inspiring ways we aim to bring community to life is through Team MSAA– an organizational initiative that encourages individuals to come together through endurance events for the purpose of improving the lives of people affected by MS. Members of Team MSAA include those living with MS, care partners, friends, family members, and advocates who want to make a difference. Each member plays a vital role in advancing MSAA’s mission of Improving Lives Today.

One story that has moved our hearts is that of Jessica Chittenden and Joseph Kiernan, siblings who ran in the 2026 Walt Disney World® Half Marathon presented by State Farm to honor their father, Patrick Kiernan, while also raising funds for MSAA’s programs and services.

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Diane Bustin – MSAA’s May 2026 Artist of the Month

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MSAA features the work of many talented artists affected by multiple sclerosis as part of our annual MSAA Art Showcase. Each month we share these artists’ inspiring stories and beautiful artwork with you as our Artist of the Month. This month, we celebrate Diane Bustin as May’s Artist of the Month.  Diane is from Collins, MS.

Mama’s Flowers
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Ask the Expert: MS Hug

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Featuring Barry A. Hendin, MD

MSAA’s Chief Medical Officer

Headshot of doctor Barry Hendin, chief medical officer for MSAA
Barry Hendin, MD

Question: What causes the pain and tight pressure around the body known as an “MS hug,” how is it treated, and can it be avoided?

Answer: The causes of the MS hug aren’t entirely clear, but we believe it is caused by an inflammation or injury to the nerves of the central nervous system (CNS), consisting of the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves. This inflammation interrupts nerve impulses and sends mixed signals to the body and the muscles. When experiencing these symptoms for the first time, it is often uncomfortable and disturbing. The term “hug” may sound inappropriate as a hug normally refers to a warm and affectionate feeling, unlike an “MS hug” that can be quite uncomfortable.

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The Power of Holistic Wellness for Individuals Living with Multiple Sclerosis

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By Dr. Eva Jackson

Holistic wellness plays a critical role in improving the quality of life for individuals affected by multiple sclerosis (MS). This approach, recognized and studied by numerous organizations, focuses on treating the whole person rather than addressing symptoms in isolation.

When I was first introduced to life with MS, my care team did not clearly explain the importance of whole-person care. Yet, despite this lack of explanation, that is exactly the model they implemented. Soon after my diagnosis, a comprehensive and coordinated plan was developed to manage my symptoms. My care team included a neuro-ophthalmologist, urologist, MS specialist, sleep medicine specialist, and a physical therapist specializing in multiple sclerosis. At the time, this fast-paced, multidisciplinary approach felt overwhelming. In retrospect, I deeply appreciate how effectively each provider worked together. This coordinated care exemplifies the essence of holistic wellness and addressing physical, emotional, and functional needs simultaneously.

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