Coping with a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis

Author(s): Mikail, S., Weinshenker, B.

Journal/Book: Can J Behav Sci. 1997; 29: 151 Slater St, Ste 205, Ottawa on K1P 5H3, Canada. Canadian Psychol Assoc. 249-256.

Abstract: This study examined the relation between coping and depression in a sample of 50 (38 women, 12 men) individuals recently diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (Ms). A semi-structured interview was used to assess how individuals coped with the onset of disabling illness, and to assess depressive symptomatology. According to DSM-III-R criteria, 18 participants were diagnosed with major depression, II were diagnosed with adjustment disorder with depressed mood, and 21 did not satisfy the criteria for any affective disorder. Interview results indicated that nondepressed participants were more likely to use present focus and avoidance/denial strategies to deal with illness onset than participants with major depression or adjustment disorder. Discussion addresses why these strategies may be an adaptive means of dealing with the onset of MS.

Note: Article Sullivan MJL, Dalhousie Univ, Dept Psychol, Halifax, NS B3H 4J1, CANADA

Keyword(s): PSYCHOLOGICAL ADJUSTMENT; UNIPOLAR DEPRESSION; CHRONIC ILLNESS; SOCIAL SUPPORT; MENTAL-HEALTH; META-ANALYSIS; PAIN PATIENTS; STRESS; STRATEGIES; DISABILITY

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