Caregiver Burden in Caregivers of Patients With Multiple Sclerosis

The Relationship Between Mood, Insomnia Severity, and Caregiver Burden in Caregivers of Patients With Multiple Sclerosis

Individuals aged 18-80 years who have been clinically diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and their caregivers will be included in the study.

Demographic data of the patients, including age, height, weight, and comorbidities, will be recorded. Disease-specific characteristics such as disease duration, presence of incontinence, ambulation status, and presence and severity of pain will be assessed. Functional status of the patients will be evaluated using the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) and the Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale (MSIS). Symptoms related to depression and anxiety in patients will be assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS).

Subsequently, caregivers of the patients will be evaluated. The severity of insomnia will be assessed using the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI). Symptoms related to anxiety and depression will be evaluated using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Caregiver burden will be assessed using the Zarit Caregiver Burden Scale.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age 18-80 years
• Clinically diagnosed with multiple sclerosis by a neurologist
• Being followed in the physical therapy and rehabilitation clinics during the study period
• Having a primary or regular caregiver (family member)
• Both patient and caregiver able to read and understand Turkish and complete questionnaires
• Willing to participate and provide written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Severe cognitive impairment or communication problems preventing questionnaire completion
• Acute relapse or hospitalization due to exacerbation within the last month
• Severe comorbid neurological, psychiatric, or systemic disease affecting assessments
• Caregiver <18 years old or not providing regular care
• Paid professional caregiver
• Caregiver with severe psychiatric, neurological, or primary sleep disorder
• Refusal to participate