Article

PURPOSE: To explore perspectives and experiences of people with multiple
sclerosis (MS) and health care professionals of mental health support for MS in
the UK. METHOD: 24 people with MS, 13 practice nurses, 12 general practitioners
(GPs) and 9 MS specialist nurses were recruited through community groups and
primary care practices across North West England. Semi-structured interviews were
conducted, and data analyzed thematically using constant comparative analysis
within and across the data sets. The theoretical framework of candidacy was used
to interrogate data. RESULTS: Four themes were identified: candidates for care,
management choices, defining roles, and permeability and responsiveness.
DISCUSSION: Candidacy for care, and symptom management, depended on the framing
of symptoms through a social or medical model of depression. Normalizing symptoms
could prevent help-seeking by patients. Reported referral behavior varied by
professional group, based on perceived remit, competency and training needs. GPs
were perceived by patients and other professionals as central for management of
mental health needs in MS, but may not perceive this role themselves, suggesting
a need for increased knowledge, training, and improved access to specialist care.
Implications for Rehabilitation Anxiety and depression are common in people with
MS. Management of mental health needs in people with MS relies on complex
decisions made by both people with MS and health care professionals. General
practitioners may play a key role in the ongoing management of mental health
needs of people with MS.

Langue : ANGLAIS