The biopsychosocial dimensions of chronic disease. The example of multiple sclerocis

It is well-known that the pandemic of chronic diseases internationally and the meaningful consequences for the patients, the family and the wider social context call for their investigation. The experienced biological, psychological, social, economic and occupational repercussions of the patients are a major blow to their adjustment to illness. Adjustment is a complex, multifaceted and holistic process, a fundamental element of which is the explanatory style of psycho-compassionate events, and that -optimistic style- affects positively patients’ health and quality of life. The effects of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) are very grievous and painful not only for patients but also for their relative, especially for those who will assume the role of caregiver. A variety of psychosocial intervention programs are proposed to patients, their families, but also to two as a whole such as self-management, social support and the pilot model of Rintell & Melito. The Rintell & Melito model includes the collaborative education of families, which are close to the diagnostic reriod of MS (less than 12 months), in strategies that advance collaboration within the family, incorporating evidence from the theory of crisis intervention, psycho-educational care, and family-centered approaches.

Keywords: Chronic disease, explanatory style, adjustment, multiple sclerosis, psychosocial intervention