CG14
Mindfulness in Multiple Sclerosis (MiMS)
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, potentially disabling disease of the central nervous system (CNS). MS can present with unpredictable physical, sensory, emotional, and psychological symptomatology. A major area of concern for individuals with MS is stress, a factor that is highly related to quality of life (QoL) (Kargiotis, 2010). MS can undermine a person’s QoL both directly and indirectly, exacerbating stress and impacting coping ability (Zweibel, 2009; Moore, 2013). Mitigating the associated stress caused by MS, through healthy coping skills and stress reduction techniques can potentially enhance the QoL for those living with MS.
Studies have suggested that stress reduction may help a broad range of individuals to cope with clinical and nonclinical problems. One such intervention that has been shown to effectively reduce stress is mindfulness based intervention (MBI). It is based upon concepts of mental training that propose that nonjudgmental awareness of moment-to moment experience (i.e., mindfulness) may positively affect accuracy of perception, acceptance of intractable health-related changes, realistic sense of control, and appreciation of available life experiences (Kabat-Zinn, 2009; Grossman, 2004).
Objectives: To enhance the QoL of persons with MS through mindfulness based techniques.
Methods: The Mindfulness in MS (MiMS) program is a weekly patient program enhancing the QoL of persons with MS through mindfulness based techniques. The MiMS program consists of 6 weekly, one hour group meetings. The group consists of a maximum of 10 participants. The format includes lecture, discussion and mindfulness exercises – such as body awareness, breathing, progressive relaxation, meditation, visualization and hypnosis. The participants are given educational material reflecting the activities from group and are encouraged to practice during the week. Auditory and visual aids are utilized.
Results: Anecdotally, patients have reported improved ability to cope with stressful life situations and enhanced relaxation. Many participants remark that techniques for stress reduction carry over into their daily lives. Specific mindfulness stress reduction strategies will be presented. Over the next six months, the efficacy of the program will continue to be assessed via QoL measures.
Conclusions: Mindfulness based techniques can enhance the QoL of individuals with MS by providing healthy coping skills to manage stress. MiMS can augment the comprehensive care provided to patients with MS.