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Depression and anxiety amongst multiple sclerosis patients
A G Beiske1, E Svensson, I Sandanger
1Department of Neurology, University Hospital, Akershus, Norway. abeiske@online.no
European Journal of Neurology
|January 25, 2008
Summary
Multiple sclerosis (MS) patients experience significantly higher rates of depression and anxiety symptoms compared to the general population. Fatigue, pain, and younger age at onset are linked to these mental health challenges in MS.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Psychiatry
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological disease.
- Depression and anxiety are common comorbidities in MS patients.
- Understanding the prevalence and associated factors is crucial for patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of depression and anxiety symptoms in MS patients.
- To identify demographic and clinical factors associated with these symptoms.
- To evaluate current treatment rates for depression and anxiety in MS.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 140 MS patients in Eastern Norway.
- Neuropsychiatric and clinical examinations were conducted.
- The Hopkins Symptom Checklist-25 was used to assess depression and anxiety symptoms.
Main Results:
- 31.4% of MS patients reported depression symptoms; 19.3% reported anxiety symptoms.
- These rates were significantly higher than in the general population (P < 0.001).
- Fatigue, younger age at onset, pain, and lower EDSS scores were associated with depression and/or anxiety.
Conclusions:
- MS patients exhibit a high prevalence of depression and anxiety.
- Targeted screening and interventions are necessary for mental health in MS.
- Increased focus on addressing depression and anxiety in MS is warranted.
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