The role of primary care in mental health for people with Multiple Sclerosis: A qualitative study

MS is a chronic neurological condition and evidence suggests a high prevalence of mental health symptoms in people with MS. Previous studies have suggested that symptoms of depression in people with MS may be overlooked. This qualitative study aimed to investigate the perceptions of people with MS of mental health symptoms and access to care for these symptoms, in particular through primary care services. People with MS were recruited from the community and primary care settings to participate in a semi-structured interview and data analysed using constant comparative analysis.Different methods of recruitment will be discussed.Participants reported reluctance to report their mental health needs to anyone, due to normalising these symptoms, fear of stigma or not knowing whom to approach for help. Participants did not identify their GP as involved in their care for their MS symptoms, including associated mental health needs. Other health care professionals, usually responsible for offering on-going support for the MS, were identified as a first point of contact including MS specialist nurses, Practice Nurses, and Continence Nurses who managed participants’ most significant symptoms.People with MS need clear information on accessing care for mental health symptoms. GPs need to be aware of their potential role in managing these symptoms. My future research will explore health care professionals’ perceptions of their roles in managing people with MS and the identification and management of depression and improving patient wellbeing.