Working together: multiple sclerosis and mental health nurses

Mental healthissues and emotional distress are a common occurrence in multiple sclerosis(MS), and are often under diagnosed and under treated; resulting in reduced functioning, increased disability and reduced qualityof life. Researchhas suggested that treatments such as antidepressants and cognitive behaviour therapyare effective in alleviating mental healthissues in MS, although it appears that many people with MS have difficulty accessing the appropriate mental healthcare. This paper outlines an initiative to improve access to mental healthcare and treatment for people with MS. It highlights the importance of joint working across boundaries for improved patient care and suggests management strategies for people experiencing mental distressin the context of multiple sclerosis.