A nurse-led mental health service for people with multiple sclerosis

David, Anthony S.; Askey-Jones, Sally; Silber, Eli; Shaw, Pauline; Gray, Richard

Abstract

Background: Mental health problems are under recognised and under treated in people with multiple sclerosis (MS). Method: A nurse-led project linking MS and mental health services was evaluated. Data on all referrals and management from 2006 to 2008 were collected prospectively. Results: 127 referrals were received. 82% had depression, 53% had anxiety (45% both). 42% were offered case management; 52% received Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), 55% required initiation or alteration of psychiatric medications and 19% were referred to secondary care; 16% had made suicidal plans. Significant improvements in depression at 6. months occurred, but not anxiety or fatigue. Clinical implications: This service provides a model of mental health provision for patients with long term neurological conditions, in particular MS. © 2012 Elsevier Inc.

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Publication Date: Jun 1, 2012
• Journal: Journal of Psychosomatic Research
• Print ISSN: 0022-3999
• Publisher: Elsevier
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 72
• Issue: 6
• Pages: 463-465
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpsychores.2012.01.020
• Keywords: multiple sclerosis, depression, anxiety
• Public URL: https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/951376
• Publisher URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jpsychores.2012.01.020