Psychiatric Comorbidities among University Students with Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) has been reported to be associated with psychological manifestations like depression, anxiety, and depression. Its presence in university students may impact their academic performance. As the relapsing-remitting type (RRMS) is the commonest MS type, we conducted this study to evaluate the prevalence and severity of the previous psychological manifestations in University students diagnosed with RRMS. The impact of MS on their academic performance was also assessed.

Patients and Methods: This case-control study included 65 students diagnosed with RRMS in addition to the same number of healthy controls. Psychological manifestations were evaluated via the Arabic form of DASS (depression, anxiety, and stress score), while academic performance was assessed via the GPA (grade point average).

Results: Patient criteria, including age and gender, were statistically comparable between the two groups. The three components of DASS expressed significantly higher values in cases compared to controls, indicating increased prevalence and severity of psychological issues in association with RRMS. MS was associated with a significant decline in the student’s academic performance as had median values of 1 and 3 in cases and controls, respectively.

Conclusion: MS is associated with a significant increase in both prevalence and severity of depression, anxiety, and depression compared to the normal healthy population. MS also has a significant negative impact on the academic performance of these students.