A - 74 You've Got a Friend in me: the Importance of a Confidant and its Role on Health and Well-Being among Women with Multiple Sclerosis (MS).

Abstract

The role of social support or connectedness on health is profound. While this has been known for some time, recent reports of the role of social activity on mortality, general health, cognition, and well-being have suggested that it may play a larger role than the known culprits of poor outcomes (e.g., smoking, diet, exercise). The present study looked at the role of social support among women with multiple sclerosis (MS), specifically whether one felt that they had a friend to confide in. One hundred and sixty women with MS completed measures of general health, MS symptomatology, and well-being. Participants also completed the Community Integration Questionnaire in which they were asked if they had a close friend that they could confide in. Thirty (19%) reported that they did not (Confidant -). We compared these women to those that did (Confidant +). There were no differences between the groups on age, education, relationship status, disease course or duration. The Confidant - group reported worse general, physical, and mental health and greater fatigue, pain, and sleep disturbance (p's < 0.05). They also reported greater depression and anxiety and worse satisfaction with life and psychological well-being (p's < 0.001). Consistent with this, they reported lower perceived social support and partner satisfaction (p's < 0.001). The simple question of "Do you have a best friend" was a large determinant in individuals' health and well-being. Findings urge practitioners to inquire about one' social network and support and assist individuals in assuring greater social connectedness in hopes of maintaining or improving one's health.