Stress management interventions for multiple sclerosis: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Abstract

Stress management interventions can help to improve mental health for adults living with multiple sclerosis. However, uncontrolled study designs may overestimate intervention effects. A systematic search of the Embase, PsycINFO, PubMed, and Scopus databases identified eight randomized controlled trials evaluating cognitive behavioral approaches for a pooled sample of 568 adults with multiple sclerosis. Both group and individual-based stress management interventions appear to be effective in promoting self-management of stress. Further research is needed to confirm the optimal timing of stress management interventions across the MS spectrum and strategies to maintain intervention effects.

Health Behaviors, Wellness, and Multiple Sclerosis Amid COVID-19

“… 21 Conversely, resilience, the ability to regain or maintain well-being despite experiencing adversity or chronic stressors, is common among people with MS 22 and positively affects MS symptoms, function, and quality of life. 23 , 24 , 25 Fortunately, robust evidence indicates that psychological interventions, including cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based interventions, stress management, self-hypnosis training, and/or self-management skills training, improve depression, 26 , 27 stress, 28 fatigue, 29 pain, 30 , 31 , 32 and sleep. 30 , 33 Many of these interventions can successfully treat multiple symptoms, such as mood, pain, and fatigue, at once, 31 making multisymptom management feasible.…”

Efficacy and acceptability of mindfulness-based interventions for military veterans: A systematic review and meta-analysis

“…Although those who complete evidence-based treatments may benefit, the impact of the available treatments on veteran health at the population level may be limited due to low rates of utilization and high rates of dropout (19). While pharmacological treatment approaches are commonly used (e.g., antidepressants, benzodiazepines, opioids) (12,20,21), there is documented interest among veterans in non-pharmacological approaches to address common psychiatric and physical health concerns (e.g., chronic pain) (22).…”

The Role of Spiritual Intelligence, Sense of Coherence, and Cognitive Flexibility as Internal Resources in Predicting Perceived Stress in Patients With Multiple Sclerosis

“…Although stress management programs have increased the quality of life in patients with MS, they have not significantly reduced their perceived stress [33]. Stress management programs typically focus on cognitive components, such as challenging negative thoughts, redefining life goals; behavioral and physical elements like breathing control and relaxation, acceptance-based and mindfulness-based components; positive emotions, including happiness, hope, and compassion [34]; skills training such as coping skills training and assertive behavior [35]; and external environment such as receiving social support [9]. However, the role of internal resources in coping with stress has not been fully considered.…”