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Published in: Journal of Clinical Psychology in Medical Settings 4/2014

01-12-2014

“Putting One Foot in Front of the Other”: A Qualitative Study of Emotional Experiences and Help-Seeking in Women with Multiple Sclerosis

Authors: Joanna Blundell Jones, Sue Walsh, Claire Isaac

Published in: Journal of Clinical Psychology in Medical Settings | Issue 4/2014

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Abstract

Treatments for depression and anxiety in multiple sclerosis (MS) are effective but evidence suggests that individuals do not always seek help for emotional difficulties. This study explored how ten women with MS (aged 30–64), recruited via a hospital based MS clinic, coped with and understood their emotions. The semi-structured interviews were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Eight participants discussed the analytic process and themes. Four overarching themes emerged: Disclosure stress, Uncomfortable dependence, Facing deterioration and One step at a time. The women struggled emotionally with many aspects of living with MS yet coping alone provided a way of defying MS and maintaining independence and control. The women needed emotional support but reported thinking others either did not notice or understand; their emotions often felt invisible. More holistic care from services was desired. Non help-seeking for distress was partially influenced by a desire to keep things “normal” and a lack of knowledge regarding service provision.
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Metadata
Title
“Putting One Foot in Front of the Other”: A Qualitative Study of Emotional Experiences and Help-Seeking in Women with Multiple Sclerosis
Authors
Joanna Blundell Jones
Sue Walsh
Claire Isaac
Publication date
01-12-2014
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
Journal of Clinical Psychology in Medical Settings / Issue 4/2014
Print ISSN: 1068-9583
Electronic ISSN: 1573-3572
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10880-014-9408-1

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