Emotional disorders associated to multiple sclerosis and psychological interventions: a literature review

Alina Schenk; Cosmin Octavian Popa; Cristiana Manuela Cojocaru

doi:10.2478/amma-2021-0042

Alina Schenk George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology from Tirgu Mures https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2385-5397
Cosmin Octavian Popa George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology from Tirgu Mures https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3155-9291
Cristiana Manuela Cojocaru George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology from Tirgu Mures https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7344-5882

DOI: https://doi.org/10.2478/amma-2021-0042

Keywords: multiple sclerosis, depression, anxiety, cognitive behavioral therapy

Abstract

Multiple sclerosis is an unpredictable neurologic disease affecting 2.8 million people worlwide. Individuals with MS experience multiple physical and psychological symptoms such as depression, anxiety, fatigue, and pain that impact their general functioning and quality of life. The aim of this revew is to highlight the importance of psychological interventions in reducing depression and anxiety symptoms associated with the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis. Cognitive and behavioral techniques are also useful in relieving the specific symptoms of multiple sclerosis. However, few studies have captured the psychological processes involved in reducing the symptoms of depression and anxiety, which is why greater concern is recommended in future studies in order to develop better psychological interventions tailored for patients with multiple sclerosis.