RT Journal Article
T1 Psychological Burden in Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis: Sociodemographic and Clinical Determinants of Persistent Anxiety and Depression over a Six-Month Follow-Up
A1 Bermello López, María Lourdes
A1 Pego Pérez, Emilio Rubén
A1 Gómez Fernández, Eva
A1 Marín Arnés, María del Rosario
A1 Fernández Vázquez, Mercedes
A1 Núñez Hernández, María Irene
A1 Gutiérrez García, Emilio
K1 Relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis
K1 Health assessment
K1 Follow-up
K1 Nursing
K1 Autoimmune diseases
K1 Health status indicators
K1 Psychological distress
K1 Emotional exhaustion
K1 Anxiety
K1 Depression
AB Background/Objectives: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological disease characterized by demyelination, inflammation, and autoimmunity, leading to progressive physical and psychological impairments. Anxiety and depression are among the most prevalent neuropsychiatric comorbidities in MS, significantly impacting patients’ quality of life (QoL). This study aimed to assess the evolution of anxiety and depression in individuals with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) over a six-month follow-up period, identify associated factors, and explore potential predictors of these psychological conditions. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted with 35 RRMS patients diagnosed at the Lucus Augusti University Hospital between January 2023 and March 2025. Psychological symptoms were assessed at baseline, after 3 months, and after 6 months using the Goldberg Anxiety and Depression Scale (GADS), the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI). Data were analyzed using non-parametric tests to account for the small sample size and non-normal distribution of variables. Results: Anxiety and depression were prevalent and persistent in the study population, with no significant changes in mean scores over time (p > 0.05). However, specific symptoms, such as pessimism and loss of pleasure, showed worsening trends, while sadness and guilt remained stable. Sociodemographic factors, including lower income and employment status, were significantly associated with higher anxiety and depression scores (p < 0.05). Additionally, clinical factors such as autoimmune comorbidities and a history of mononucleosis were linked to higher depressive symptoms. Baseline anxiety and depression scores emerged as strong predictors of future levels (p < 0.01), emphasizing the importance of early assessments. Conclusions: Anxiety and depression are prevalent and persistent in RRMS patients, with specific symptoms fluctuating over time. Sociodemographic and clinical factors play a significant role in psychological outcomes, highlighting the need for integrated care models that address both physical and psychosocial aspects of MS. Early psychological assessments and targeted interventions are critical for improving QoL and mitigating the long-term burden of mental health challenges in RRMS.
PB MDPI
YR 2026
FD 2026-01-26
LK https://hdl.handle.net/10347/45567
UL https://hdl.handle.net/10347/45567
LA eng
NO Bermello López, M. L., Pego Pérez, E. R., Gómez Fernández, E., Marín Arnés, M. d. R., Fernández Vázquez, M., Núñez Hernández, M. I., & Gutiérrez García, E. (2026). Psychological Burden in Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis: Sociodemographic and Clinical Determinants of Persistent Anxiety and Depression over a Six-Month Follow-Up. Nursing Reports, 16(2), 39. https://doi.org/10.3390/nursrep16020039
NO This research was funded by “Ilustre Colegio Oficial de Enfermería de Lugo and University of Santiago de Compostela, grant number 2025-PO021”.
DS Minerva
RD 29 abr 2026