The effect of group spiritual care on hope in patients with multiple sclerosis referred to the MS Society of Zahedan, Iran

Introduction
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is known as an autoimmune disease and a chronic inflammatory condition, inducing a wide variety of mood affective disorders, including depression and feelings of hopelessness in many aspects of patients’ quality of life (QoL). In view of the positive side effects of spirituality and spiritual care on finding appropriate strategies for further adaptation, this study aimed to determine the impact of group spiritual care (GSC) on levels of hope in patients suffering from MS.

Material and methods
This clinical trial was conducted on a total of 96 patients with MS, referring to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS) in the city of Zahedan, Iran. The data collection tools for this purpose included a demographic information form and the Adult Hope Scale completed by the subjects at the pre- and post-intervention stages. Additionally, the intervention group received five sessions of GSC during three weeks but the control group members only talked over daily issues along with their mental health problems.

Results
The Kruskal-Wallis test results revealed that the GSC intervention could have a significant positive effect on raising hope in the patients with MS (p < 0.001). Moreover, a significant increase was observed in the scores of hope dimensions including agency and pathway (p < 0.001).

Conclusions
GSC can effectively boost levels of hope in patients suffering from MS in all dimensions. Therefore, it is recommended to utilize this type of care in order to nurture hope in such individuals.