The significance of somatic and psychosocial factors for coping with illness by patients with multiple sclerosis

The coping behavior of 298 multiple sclerosis patients was assessed by means of a questionnaire. Despite more pronounced somatic complaints, women view their psychological situation more positively than men; they are more optimistic, less anxious, less depressed, and less preoccupied with their illness and its consequences. In the event of reduced working capacity due to the disease, men are more frequently disabled than housewives. However, there is evidence that early disability compensation may have a negative effect on the psychological well-being and the coping behavior. Careful thought should therefore be given to the timing when the question of a pension is discussed.