Coping with multiple sclerosis as a couple: 'peaks and troughs' - an interpretative phenomenological exploration

Area of Science:

• Health Psychology
• Couple Dynamics
• Chronic Illness Management

Background:

• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) presents significant challenges due to illness uncertainty.
• Effective coping strategies for individuals with MS often involve their partners.
• Limited understanding exists regarding couple-based coping mechanisms in MS.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore how couples, where one partner has MS, experience coping with the condition.
• To gain insight into the interconnected coping processes within these relationships.

Main Methods:

• Utilized Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA).
• Conducted semi-structured interviews with seven couples affected by MS.
• Focused on lived experiences of coping as a couple.

Main Results:

• Identified overarching themes of "Coping Together: Peaks and Troughs" and "Coping Over the Long Haul."
• Discovered integrative themes of "Faith in Self" and "Faith in Each Other."
• Highlighted the interconnected nature of coping within couples facing MS.

Conclusions:

• Findings enhance clinicians' understanding of couple-based coping in MS.
• Emphasizes the need for sensitivity to individual and relational coping strategies.
• Informs rehabilitation approaches by addressing the evolving needs of couples affected by MS.