Hope in Multiple Sclerosis: A Nursing Perspective

Abstract

Feelings of hopelessness are common in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), which poses a significant threat to an individual's independence and feelings of competence. Because hope has been shown to play an important role in health and coping during chronic illness, it is critical for the MS provider to understand the elements of hope and recognize when the person with MS is struggling with feelings of hopelessness. The MS nurse is the pivotal player in ensuring that the individual with MS maintains a sense of hope throughout the illness. In addition to providing education, counseling and referrals, the nurse can help the MS patient focus on feelings and ideas, recognize personal reasons for living, and establish both short-term and long-term goals.