Highlights
- •Depression is not regularly and formally assessed through MS healthcare services.
- •Information about depression in MS and treatment options is required at MS healthcare services.
- •Healthcare and community services collaboration is required to improve mental health management in MS.
Abstract
Background
Depression is common in people with multiple sclerosis (MS), yet often goes undetected,
untreated or undertreated.
Objective
This qualitative research explored current practices, barriers and facilitators for
detection and treatment of depression in Australians with MS.
Methods
Participants were 26 people with MS recruited through social media. Participants completed
the Centre for Epidemiological Studies Depression-Revised (CESD-R) scale and in-depth
telephone or video interviews. Interviews were analysed using framework analysis.
Results
Scores measured on the CESD-R proposed 73% of participants were experiencing severe
depression symptoms. Participants reported that depression is not regularly and formally
assessed through MS healthcare services and they are offered limited information about
depression in MS. Barriers to mental health support included recognition of depression,
resistance to treatment and limitations of collaborative support between general practitioners
and MS healthcare services. Participants expressed a need for open conversations and
information about depression during neurology consultations.
Conclusion
Based on our findings, improved detection and treatment of depression in people with
MS requires: 1) better provision of information about depression for people with MS
through healthcare services and community organisations; 2) regular screening and
assessment; 3) better healthcare services collaboration to improve management.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: September 27, 2021
Accepted:
September 26,
2021
Received in revised form:
August 26,
2021
Received:
June 4,
2021
Identification
Copyright
© 2021 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
