Fragkiadaki, E., Cotterill, N. & Rice, C. (2022). MyMS-Ally Group Psychological Intervention: a feasibility and acceptability study of a novel group psychological intervention for people with Multiple Sclerosis

Fragkiadaki, Eva; Cotterill, Nikki; Rice, Claire

Abstract

The emotional and cognitive facets of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) have a significant impact on the patients’ quality of life, relationships and other significant areas of living. Psychological interventions and their efficacy have been the focus of MS literature over the past years. The present research project follows from an exploratory mixed method study on the effects of various forms of psychosocial interventions on the experience and management of MS (Fragkiadaki et al., 2021). The results of that study generated themes that led to the development of a novel, patient – led psychological intervention named MyMS-Ally. The current study aims to explore the feasibility and acceptability of MyMS-Ally intervention and also obtain preliminary data on the effects on quality of life, emotion regulation, depression and anxiety through the application of a mixed methods design. People with MS will be recruited at the Bristol and Avon Multiple Sclerosis centre. They will participate in MyMS-Ally group intervention for 8 weeks. They will complete quantitative measures before and after the intervention as well as at one and three – months follow – up. Individual semi – structured qualitative interviews will also be conducted before and after the intervention and at 3 – months follow-up. The aim is to explore the relevance, sustainability and adherence to the intervention (feasibility) as well as the appropriateness of the intervention based on the emotional and cognitive responses, satisfaction and perceived effectiveness (acceptability). The secondary aim of the study is to obtain preliminary data on change processes and outcomes. The researcher has actively involved Members of the Research Network of the UK MS Society in the research design and dissemination strategy. Three of the members also requested to remain updated and involved in the project. The study is funded by the Vice – Chancellor’s Early Career Researcher Award, University of the West of England.

• Presentation Conference Type: Poster
• Conference Name: MS Frontiers Conference
• Start Date: Jul 7, 2022
• End Date: Jul 8, 2022
• Deposit Date: Jul 10, 2022
• Publicly Available Date: Jul 11, 2022
• Public URL: https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/9688035
• Publisher URL: https://www.mssociety.org.uk/research/for-researchers/ms-frontiers