Degree of depression found in 120 spinal multiple sclerosis (MS) outpatients was related significantly to selected illness, demographic, and social variables. The more depressed individuals tended to be more disabled, older, and, in particular, perceived their families and friends as providing less social support than those who were less depressed. Those who had experienced at least one remission were less depressed than those who never had had a remission. Contrary to hypothesized expectations, the results also suggested that the longer a patient has MS, the more depressed he will be. Such results raise implications for psychotherapeutic intervention in this population, as well as suggest the need for future investigations of the MS patients's body image, self‐concept, and perception of disability.
The purpose of the study was to explore the utility of stress-reduction techniques within a population of hospitalized multiple sclerosis patients. Four stress-management groups, each composed of 8 to 10 patients, were formed with each participant receiving a pre- and posttest battery focusing on emotional/mood factors (the Profile of Mood States). Group sessions were held once/weekly for 13 wk. Relaxation, cognitive, and behavioral strategies were incorporated into the program. The findings indicate that stress-management techniques were effective in the reduction of psychological distress. Significant decreases were noted in scores on depression and anxiety and significant increase on vigor.
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