Journal
MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS JOURNAL
Volume 26, Issue 13, Pages 1797-1800Publisher
SAGE PUBLICATIONS LTD
DOI: 10.1177/1352458519884241
Keywords
Multiple sclerosis; depression; loneliness; social networks; social support
Categories
Funding
- National Multiple Sclerosis Society [PP-1709-29158]
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Background: Loneliness is a risk factor for increased morbidity and mortality. Persons with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) are at increased risk for loneliness. Support groups facilitate meaningful social connections. Objective: To conduct a feasibility trial of eSupport: online support groups. Methods: Participants engaged in 1 hour/week eSupport or eJournal (active control). Primary outcome was feasibility (completion and adherence). We evaluated loneliness and depressive symptoms for preliminary efficacy. Results: Feasibility outcomes were met: completion rate was 96.4%; 88.9% were adherent. Loneliness and depression showed trend-level decreases in both conditions. Conclusion: Feasibility of telehealth support group participation for pwMS was supported. eSupport is accessible, affordable, acceptable, and scalable. Results warrant a randomized controlled trial to support efficacy.
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