Psychological Interventions for Multiple Sclerosis Patients
Summary
Psychological interventions play a central role in mitigating the mental health burden and enhancing quality of life for individuals living with multiple sclerosis (MS). Common approaches include cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) to address depression and anxiety by reshaping unhelpful thought patterns; mindfulness‐based programmes to cultivate present‐moment awareness and reduce stress; and acceptance and commitment therapies to foster psychological flexibility and values‐driven action. Group‐based formats, resilience training and metacognitive modules aim to strengthen coping strategies and self‐efficacy, while digital delivery platforms broaden access and scalability. Interventions target key challenges in MS such as fatigue, cognitive dysfunction, mood disturbances and social isolation. The evidence base has expanded to include remote and hybrid models, co‐designed protocols that reflect patient experiences, and disease‐specific adaptations that integrate neuroeducation and movement‐based practices. Overall, these programmes demonstrate moderate to large effect sizes on depressive symptoms, stress reduction and quality of life, and are increasingly tailored to address the complex interplay between neurological progression and psychological well‐being.
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Psychological Interventions for Multiple Sclerosis Patients publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in psychological interventions for multiple sclerosis patients across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT): A structured psychological treatment teaching patients to identify and modify negative thoughts and behaviours to alleviate psychological distress.
Mindfulness‐based stress reduction (MBSR): A group programme combining mindfulness meditation and gentle movement to reduce stress and enhance mental health.
Internet‐delivered cognitive behavioural therapy (iCBT): A web‐based adaptation of CBT offering remote and scalable access to cognitive and behavioural interventions.
Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT): A psychological approach promoting acceptance of internal experiences and commitment to value‐driven behaviour to improve resilience.
Metacognitive training: Interventions targeting awareness and regulation of thinking processes to mitigate cognitive biases and support psychological functioning.
References
- Internet-delivered cognitive behavioural therapy programme to reduce depressive symptoms in patients with multiple sclerosis: a multicentre, randomised, controlled, phase 3 trial. The Lancet Digital Health (2023).
- Supporting brain health in multiple sclerosis: exploring the potential of neuroeducation combined with practical mindfulness exercises in the management of neuropsychological symptoms. Journal of Neurology (2023).
- Development of a Web-Based Mindfulness Program for People With Multiple Sclerosis: Qualitative Co-Design Study. Journal of Medical Internet Research (2021).
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