Background: In addition to leading to physical symptoms, a diagnosis of multiple
sclerosis (MS) can have considerable mental health impacts. A recent MS Ireland
survey found that the greatest unmet needs expressed by people with MS (PwMS)
were needs for psychological support. Guidance is lacking on how best to address
these needs in the Irish context.
Aims: This project, a partnership between leading academics, clinicians and
knowledge users, with significant integrated public and patient involvement (PPI),
aims to identify the characteristics of effective mental health supports for PwMS and
the strategies that can be implemented to improve the delivery of mental health
services and supports for PwMS in Ireland
Methodology: Firstly, a rapid review will establish key characteristics of effective
mental health interventions for PwMS (WP1). Next, a mixed methods survey with
PwMS will explore how mental health is impacted by MS, the socioeconomic and
health-related predictors of support needs, mental health services and supports
availed of, and the barriers and facilitators to support seeking (WP2). Finally,
currently available supports will be mapped and a multistakeholder Delphi study, with
healthcare professionals, MS Ireland community workers, researchers, PwMS, and
MS caregivers, will develop consensus recommendations for the provision of mental
health support for PwMS in Ireland (WP3). Continued PPI engagement and ongoing
knowledge dissemination and translation activities will underpin this work (WP4).
Findings will highlight the complex mental health needs of PwMS, currently available
supports, and areas in which supports are most likely to be effective.
Potential Impact: Project outcomes will inform advocacy and service development at
MS Ireland between 2025-2029. By highlighting findings to relevant decision makers
(e.g., National Clinical Programmes in Neurology and Rehabilitation Medicine, and
the Irish College of General Practitioners), project outcomes will influence policy and
evidence-based practice for supporting the mental health of PwMS in Ireland.
