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Disability identity predicts lower anxiety and depression in multiple sclerosis
1School of Psychological Science, Oregon State University.
Rehabilitation Psychology
|January 13, 2015
Summary
A stronger disability identity is linked to reduced depression and anxiety in individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS). This finding highlights the importance of support and advocacy for people with MS to foster a positive disability identity.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Psychology
- Social Sciences
Background:
- Disability identity, the affirmation of one's status as a person with a disability, is linked to well-being.
- The relationship between disability identity and psychological distress, specifically depression and anxiety, in multiple sclerosis (MS) remains underexplored.
- Existing research suggests demographic and disability-related factors influence well-being in MS populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between disability identity and psychological distress (depression and anxiety) in individuals diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS).
- To determine if disability identity predicts lower levels of depression and anxiety, independent of demographic and disability-specific variables.
- To explore the potential role of disability identity in the psychological well-being of individuals with MS.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional online survey was administered to 106 participants diagnosed with MS.
- Measures included validated scales for disability identity, depression, anxiety, and activities of daily living (ADL) performance.
- Demographic information and MS duration were also collected. Inclusion criteria specified self-reported MS diagnosis, walking impairment, age 18+, US residency, and English fluency.
Main Results:
- Hierarchical regression analyses indicated that disability identity was a significant unique predictor of lower depression and anxiety levels.
- Older age was also associated with reduced depression and anxiety.
- Higher performance in activities of daily living (ADL) was independently linked to lower psychological distress.
Conclusions:
- A stronger disability identity is associated with lower psychological distress among individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS).
- Clinical interventions should consider supporting the development of disability identity by encouraging participation in disability support and advocacy groups.
- Future research should explore psychosocial interventions aimed at affirming disability identity to improve mental health outcomes in MS.
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