[Introduction of the demoralization scale in Hungary, a study on demoralization and depression among hospice...

Depression is a common problem among hospice patients. In the past few years, the international literature has dealt with demoralization, which is a new phenomenon. According to clinical studies, it give a better description of the patients' state in palliative care than depression. In Hungary there has been no research performed on demoralization yet.

The aim of the authors was to introduce the demoralization scale in Hungary, learn about its practical use, as well as to study and compare demoralization and depression.

The Hungarian translation of the demoralization scale and the short form of the Beck depression inventory were applied in the institutional and home hospice service in Pécs.

The rate of the patients with severe demoralization but no depression was 10.5-21%. According to the severity of the demoralization, the rate of severely demoralized patients was 37-53%. Patients who suffered from pain or severe physical problems were significantly more demoralized and depressed.

In hospice patients, demoralization occurs in a higher rate than depression. The demoralization scale is suitable for describing patients' feelings and thoughts. The relief of their physical symptoms affects their emotional state. The authors introduced the demoralization scale in Hungary which can be a good tool for psychological management in palliative care.