Perspectives and Experiences Related to Help-Seeking Behaviors: A Content Analysis Study of Iranian Patients With Multiple Sclerosis

BACKGROUND:Patients with multiple sclerosis practice help-seeking behaviors largely because of the progression of this physically exhausting disease, which has far reaching psychosocial consequences and requires hospitalization during severe disease exacerbations. PURPOSE:The aim of this study was to describe the perspectives and experiences of Iranian patients with multiple sclerosis regarding help-seeking behaviors. METHODS:A qualitative design, based on the content analysis approach, was used. Data were drawn from unstructured interviews that were held with 23 participants, who were referred from two teaching hospitals and from the Multiple Sclerosis Society in Ahvaz, Iran. RESULTS:During the data analysis, four main themes emerged, including “reliance on God and recourse to the imams,” “striving to gain caring knowledge,” “a need for comprehensive support,” and “attention to spiritual care.” CONCLUSIONS/IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE:Healthcare team members, especially nurses, should pay attention to perspectives of patients with multiple sclerosis and try to address these patients’ help-seeking behaviors to provide high-quality care.The authors hope that the findings of this study will inform the construction of interventional strategies to improve nursing care and facilitate the provision of better support services for people with MS.