The Relationship Between Aspects of Resiliency and Intimacy-Related Illness Intrusiveness in Males with Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis is a neurological condition that can have a substantial impact on well-being. In a previous study, men with multiple sclerosis exhibited significantly higher intimacy-related illness intrusiveness, even after considering age, disease severity, and depression. It was hypothesized a psychosocial intervention specific to intimacy could be beneficial; however, investigation was needed into useful strategies. This study initiated the first steps by assessing the associations between aspects of resiliency and intimacy-related illness intrusiveness in males with multiple sclerosis, and whether they could mediate the latter's relationship with depression. Primarily recruited through the North American Research Committee on Multiple Sclerosis Registry, 156 males with multiple sclerosis were included. A subscale from the Illness Intrusiveness Rating Scale (IIRS) measured intimacy-related illness intrusiveness. Resiliency was measured with the Multiple Sclerosis Resiliency Scale (MSRS). Correlations were run between the IIRS and MSRS scores, and mediation analyses explored the MSRS' role in the relationship between depression and intimacy-related illness intrusiveness. Intimacy-related illness intrusiveness significantly correlated with overall resilience (r = - 0.34, p < 0.01), coping strategies (r = - 0.37, p < 0.01), support from family and friends (r = - 0.22, p < 0.01), and peer support (r = 0.18, p = 0.03). There was a significant indirect effect of depression on intimacy-related illness intrusiveness through coping strategies (b = 0.24, p = 0.01), representing a medium effect (Rmed2 = 0.10). Findings are consistent with previous research using cognitive strategies to address intimacy issues in multiple sclerosis. Follow-up qualitative research may elucidate what is driving associations.