The effect on the anxiety level of the social support given to multiple sclerosis patients.

Purpose: This is a descriptive study aiming at determining the effect on the anxiety level of the social support given to multiple sclerosis (MS) patients.

Design And Methods: This study was conducted with 123 MS patients. The data were collected the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A).

Results: The Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support total score average was 57.18 ± 18.5, and the HAM-A total score average was 20.33 ± 10.42. A negative weak significant relationship was found between the MSPSS total score average and the HAM-A total score and its sub-dimensions.

Practice Implications: MS nurses should plan their anxiety management accordingly by giving holistic care and evaluating social support mechanisms.