Depression and perceived social support among Saudi patients with multiple sclerosis.

PURPOSE: To examine the association between depression level and perceived social support among patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) in Saudi Arabia.

DESIGN AND METHODS: A cross-sectional, descriptive, correlational design was used with 140 patients. A self-reporting questionnaires were used.

FINDINGS: The age range of the participants was 18-59 years (mean 34.3 years, SD 7.69). The mean score for reported depression was 27.5 which is considered as moderate level of depression. The mean score of the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) was 45.3 (SD = 16.2). Patients with MS who received higher level of social support exhibits lower level of depression.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Aside from addressing physiological needs, healthcare providers must ensure that patients with MS receive positive social support to decrease level of depression.