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Previous studies have shown that the occurrence of depression in people with MS is up to 2-3 times higher than the general population. It is also known that depression in this group may be more challenging to treat effectively. Additionally, recent research has shown that depression in people living with MS may go undetected and be under-treated in the community.
In this study, Dr Lisa Grech has built on her previous work funded by MS Australia, to better understand the current screening, monitoring and treatment of depression in people with MS and to more fully understand the characteristics of depressive symptoms in this population. Additionally, Dr Grech assessed whether a brief screening tool which may easily be incorporated into clinical visits, may assist healthcare professionals to better detect depression in people with MS. It was anticipated that outcomes from the study will then support clinicians to improve both the detection and management of depression in this population. This will ultimately lead to improved quality of life for people with MS.
Dr Grech and her team have completed collecting data on how depression in people with MS is currently identified and treated and the challenges involved. They also collected data on level of depression and how depression looks in people with MS.
A systematic review of guidelines to support detection, treatment and management of depression in people with MS has been completed, with development of recommendations and supports still in progress. The data collected on depression in people with MS and how it is identified and treated will be analysed in the future.
Dr Grech and her team found that depression and mental health need improved systematic management in Australian healthcare systems. There is a need for updated guidelines for depression assessment and management that are promoted by local MS community organisations. Additionally, there is also a shortage of resources for healthcare clinics addressing depression in MS, including treatment options and referral pathways. Clinicians would like brief online training about a range of topics on depression in MS.
Dr Grech and her team also found there was limited evidence to show depression symptoms in people with MS differs from that of people without MS, when both groups are matched for age, gender and severity of depression.
McIntosh, G., Liu, E., Allan, M., & Grech, L. B. (2023). Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Detection and Treatment of Depression in Multiple Sclerosis: A systematic review. Neurology: Clinical Practice, 13(3), [e200154]. https://doi.org/10.1212/CPJ.0000000000200154
Updated 31 March 2024Â
$165,000
2021
3 years
Past project
