Effects of psychological group therapy in patients with multiple sclerosis

Objectives - The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate a psychological therapy program used in the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS) and including cognitive/behavioral strategies, relaxation training and physical exercise. Material and methods - The participants were 29 patients with MS recruited from an outpatient unit; 14 patients were assigned to the 7-week psychological therapy group (one session per week), the remainder formed a control group. Before and immediately after the course of therapy and after a 2-month follow-up, the participants completed a series of questionnaires measuring factors such as depression, anxiety, coping and body image. Results - Compared with the control group the therapy group showed long-term improvements in depressive stress coping style and a short-term improvement in "vitality and body dynamics". Conclusion - Further studies should investigate the differential effects of specific units of the therapy program and how the short-term improvements in "vitality and body dynamics" could be maintained for longer periods.