In:
International Journal of MS Care, Consortium of Multiple Sclerosis Centers, Vol. 20, No. 3 ( 2018-05-01), p. 136-141
Abstract:
Positive psychology uses targeted activities to increase the frequency and intensity of positive emotional experiences. Positive psychology interventions that increase positive constructs may facilitate adjustment and improve well-being in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). The primary goal of this study was to assess the feasibility and acceptability of a 5-week group positive psychology intervention for patients with MS. In addition, we examined the utility of the group intervention to increase positive psychological constructs and health-related quality of life (HRQOL). Methods: 11 patients completed 5 weeks of group positive psychology training, one time per week (session duration, 45–60 minutes). Each week, patients completed one of the following positive psychology exercises: gratitude for positive events, personal strengths, gratitude letter, enjoyable and meaningful activities, and remembering past successes. Patients completed patient-reported outcome measures, including measures of positive affect, optimism, depression, anxiety, and HRQOL, at baseline and after 5 weeks. Results: All the participants completed the 5-week group positive psychology intervention, and 82% attended four or more sessions. Improvements in fatigue (vitality) and depression after the group intervention were significant (P = .016 and .049, respectively). There were no statistically significant changes in positive or negative affect, optimism, anxiety, HRQOL, or cognition. Conclusions: The 5-week group positive psychology intervention was feasible and acceptable to patients with MS. A randomized controlled trial is necessary to further explore the effectiveness of the group intervention.
Type of Medium:
Online Resource
ISSN:
1537-2073
DOI:
10.7224/1537-2073.2017-002
Language:
English
Publisher:
Consortium of Multiple Sclerosis Centers
Publication Date:
2018
detail.hit.zdb_id:
2128700-4
