%0 Journal Article
%T Outcomes of a Peer Support Program in Multiple Sclerosis in an Australian Community Cohort: A Prospective Study
%A Louisa Ng
%A Bhasker Amatya
%A Fary Khan
%J Journal of Neurodegenerative Diseases
%D 2013
%I Hindawi Publishing Corporation
%R 10.1155/2013/429171
%X Background/Objectives. This pilot study evaluated the impact of a peer support program on improving multiple sclerosis (MS) related psychological functions (depression, anxiety, and stress) and enhancing quality of life. Methodology. Participants ( ) were recruited prospectively and received an 8-week group face-to-face peer support program. Assessments were at baseline (T1), 6 weeks after program (T2), and 12 months after program (T3), using validated questionnaires: Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS), McGill Quality of Life (MQOL), and Brief COPE. Results. Participants¡¯ mean age was 52; the majority were female (64%) and married (64%). Median time since MS diagnosis was 16 years. At T2, participants reported improved psychological functioning (DASS ¡°depression,¡± ¡°anxiety,¡± and ¡°stress¡± subscales, values £¿2.36, £¿2.22, and £¿2.54, moderate effect sizes ( ) 0.29, 0.28, and 0.32, resp.) and quality of life (MQOL SIS score £¿2.07, ) and were less likely to use ¡°self-blame¡± as a coping mechanism (Brief COPE score £¿2.37, ). At T3, the positive improvements in stress (DASS stress subscale score £¿2.41, ) and quality of life were maintained (MQOL SIS, score £¿2.30, ). There were no adverse effects reported. 1. Introduction Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic demyelinating disease of the central nervous system and one of the most common causes of neurological disability in persons of working age [1]. Persons with MS have a relatively normal life span and live for decades with combinations of deficits, such as physical, cognitive, psychosocial, behavioural, and environmental problems. In 2001, the World Health Organization introduced the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) [2], which aimed to develop a common language for describing the impact of disease at different levels. Hence, classified according to the ICF, impairments in MS (strength, dysarthria) can result in activity limitation (mobility, self-care) and restriction in societal participation (impact on work, family, and finances). The ICF also includes contextual factors that are divided into ¡°environmental¡± factors which make up the physical, social, and attitudinal environment in which people live and ¡°personal factors¡± which include gender, coping style, and social and educational background which may affect the person¡¯s experience of living with their condition. The burden of disease and economic impact of MS upon patients, their caregivers, and on society is substantial. Being diagnosed with a chronic illness, especially one that has no cure or any medical
%U http://www.hindawi.com/journals/jnd/2013/429171/