Correlation between self-esteem and self-compassion in patients with multiple sclerosis - a cross-sectional study

Aim: This study was performed to determine the correlation between self-esteem and self-compassion in patients with MS. Methods: This descriptive study was performed on 51 patients with MS from multiple cities of Iran. Patients were selected through available sampling method. Standard self-esteem tools and self-compassion researcher-made tools were used in patients with MS in order to collect data. Data were analyzed using the Pearson correlation coefficient and SPSS software version 20. Results: The mean age of participants was 36.54 years. Most of the participants were women and married. The results showed only statistically insignificant correlation between self-esteem and dimensions of self-kindness (r = 0.205), self-judgment (r = 0.024), common sense of humanity (r = 0.111), mindfulness (r = 0.24), seeking support (r = 0.145) and being a model for others (r = 0.57) in self-compassion (P > 0.05 in all cases). Conclusion: Providing appropriate solutions to increase self-esteem and self-compassion in these patients will cause to correct and improve the quality of mental and ultimately physical condition of these patients.