Medical Journal of Mashhad university of Medical Sciences

Medical Journal of Mashhad university of Medical Sciences

The effectiveness of group therapy based on acceptance and commitment (ACT) on the psychological well-being of women with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors
Azim Azimi 1
Shahrokh Makvand Hoseini 2
Mahmood Najafi 3
Parvin Rafieenia 4
1 Ph.D student in Psychology, Semnan University, Semnan, Iran
2 Associate professor, Department of Clinical Psychology, Semnan University, Semnan, Iran (Corresponding Author)
3 Assistant professor, Department of Clinical Psychology, Semnan University, Semnan, Iran
4 Associate Professor, Department of Clinical Psychology, Semnan University, Semnan, Iran
10.22038/mjms.2021.23303
Abstract
Introduction: The purpose of this study was effectiveness of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy on the psychological symptoms (anxiety, depression and stress) in women with relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS).
Methods: Materials and Methods: A sampling method was used to select 30 women from multiple sclerosis patients in Kermanshah (Iran). They were randomly assigned into two groups of experimental and control (n = 15 in each group). The experimental group received 8 group sessions of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and control group did not receive any treatment. The DASS-42 scale was completed by both groups at three stages before, past and three months after the test.
Results:  The mean of psychological symptoms (depression, anxiety, and stress) was significantly different between the experimental and control groups after treatment (P≤0.001).
Conclusion: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy is effective in reducing the anxiety, depression and stress of women with relapsing-remitting type of multiple sclerosis. This method is recommended as a complementary psychosocial treatment for these patients.
Keywords
Multiple Sclerosis
Acceptance And Commitment Therapy
Stress
Anxiety
Depression
Medical Journal of Mashhad university of Medical Sciences
Volume 63, Issue 6
January and February 2021