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COVID-19 and multiple sclerosis: a thematic analysis of the unique experiences of people with multiple sclerosis during the COVID-19 pandemic
Multiple Sclerosis Journal ; 28(3 Supplement):686-687, 2022.
Article in English | EMBASE | ID: covidwho-2138906
ABSTRACT

Introduction:

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on people living with multiple sclerosis (MS) is expected to be significant. Whilst quantitative research in this area has been undertaken, there is a paucity of qualitative research;this study will therefore provide valuable insights into individual experiences and perceptions of people with MS (PwMS) in the United Kingdom (UK) during this unique period. Objective(s) The ongoing global health crisis leaves us all in a state of uncertainty that requires constant adaptation to the new 'normal' we are living in, and it is important that the challenges faced by the MS community are recognised and addressed as part of this learning process. We explore self-reported data gathered during the pandemic to reach conclusions regarding the impact of the crisis on PwMS. Aim(s) To enhance understanding of the experiences of PwMs during the COVID-19 pandemic and identifying potential areas where further support could be beneficial. Method(s) Between March 3 and October 29, 2020, 1,685 free-text comments regarding the unique experiences of PwMS were collected online by the UK MS Register (UKMSR). Thematic analysis of 1,000 randomly selected responses made by 682 individuals was used to investigate the perceived impact of COVID-19 on the participants, following a constructivist approach. Result(s) Five main themes were identified in the data connectedness, attitudes towards change, mental health, stigma, and information and advice. Results of the thematic analysis were varied, with significant numbers reporting positive experiences of the pandemic. Conclusion(s) Individual levels of connectedness and attitude towards change significantly influence how PwMS experience life during the COVID-19 outbreak. The data showed the impact of COVID-19 on mental health to be mixed among PwMS. The pandemic hashighlighted that some PwMS remain fearful of being stigmatised in the workplace because of their condition.
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Full text: Available Collection: Databases of international organizations Database: EMBASE Type of study: Qualitative research Language: English Journal: Multiple Sclerosis Journal Year: 2022 Document Type: Article

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Full text: Available Collection: Databases of international organizations Database: EMBASE Type of study: Qualitative research Language: English Journal: Multiple Sclerosis Journal Year: 2022 Document Type: Article