The Effect on the Anxiety Level of the Social Support Given to Multiple Sclerosis Patients

Abstract

Purpose This is a descriptive study aiming at determining the effect on the anxiety level of the social support given to multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. Design and Methods This study was conducted with 123 MS patients. The data were collected the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A). Results The Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support total score average was 57.18 +/- 18.5, and the HAM-A total score average was 20.33 +/- 10.42. A negative weak significant relationship was found between the MSPSS total score average and the HAM-A total score and its sub-dimensions. Practice implications MS nurses should plan their anxiety management accordingly by giving holistic care and evaluating social support mechanisms.