Fatalism, self-management and self-esteem: How do they shape the quality of life in MS and epilepsy Patients?

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the impact of fatalism, self-management, and self-esteem on the quality of life of individuals with multiple sclerosis and epilepsy. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between February and May 2024 with 122 MS patients and 108 epilepsy patients. Participants completed questionnaires measuring fatalistic beliefs, self-management, self-esteem, and quality of life. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews during hospital visits. Statistical analyses included t-tests, Mann-Whitney U tests, and hierarchical regression. Results: MS patients reported significantly higher levels of fatalism and lower levels of self-esteem compared to epilepsy patients. However, both groups reported statistically significant relationships between fatalism, self-management, self-esteem, and quality of life. Hierarchical regression analyses revealed that the factor of fatalism negatively impacted quality of life in both groups, while self-management and self-esteem were positively associated with quality of life. Although these variables consistently impacted the quality of life for both groups, the magnitude of these effects and the amount of variance explained differed. Conclusions: These findings highlight the importance of addressing fatalistic beliefs, promoting self-management skills, and enhancing self-esteem in both MS and epilepsy patients. Intervention programs focusing on these psychosocial factors could significantly improve the quality of life for individuals living with these chronic neurological conditions.