Dealing with Chronic Illness: Experiences of Iranian Families of Persons with Multiple Sclerosis—A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background Today family members are providing care and support to each other during illness. In particular, in chronic illness, such as multiple sclerosis, the families are more involved in caring for and supporting their patients, so they use several strategies to cope with this situation. The purpose of this study was to explore the coping strategies in family caregivers of persons with multiple sclerosis in Iran. Methods This is a qualitative study that was conducted through 18 family caregivers of persons with multiple sclerosis. A purposeful sampling method was used. Data were collected through semistructured and in-depth interviews conducted in Multiple Sclerosis Society and hospitals of Tabriz in Iran. The collected data was analyzed according to qualitative content analysis. Results Five main categories were elicited from interviews: “using spirituality,” “living with hope,” “experiencing persistence and stability,” “seeking support,” and “seeking alternative treatments.” Conclusion. The study findings can help to inform the support given to families to help them cope with the effects of caring for someone with multiple sclerosis. Health system managers and professionals by using these results are able to support patients and their families appropriately in order to improve their quality of life and alleviate the complications of disease.

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“…These requirements not only affect the patient but also the entire family, 4 who has a fundamental role in patients' adherence 5 . For married patients with chronic diseases, studies usually point to the spouse as the primary source of support and care 6,7 …”

<p>The Experiences of Multiple Sclerosis Patients’ Family Caregivers at the First Hospitalization of Their Patients: A Qualitative Study</p>

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“…They showed that patients with anxiety and depression were more likely to use negative adjustment and had unorganized religion. ( 29 ) Strong relationship between family members in the Iranian society help them to care for their patients in case that one of their family members became ill.( 30 )…”