Improving detection and treatment of depression in people with MS

Dr Lisa Grech

Monash University, VIC

SUPPORT PROJECTS WITH THIS RESEARCH FOCUS

Summary

Previous studies have shown that the occurrence of depression in people with MS is up to 2-3 times higher than the general population. It is also known that depression in this group may be more challenging to treat effectively. Additionally, recent research has shown that depression in people living with MS may go undetected and be under-treated in the community.

In this study, Dr Lisa Grech hopes to build on her previous work funded by MS Research Australia, to better understand the current screening, monitoring and treatment of depression in people with MS and to more fully understand the characteristics of depressive symptoms in this population. Additionally, Dr Grech will assess whether a brief screening tool which may easily be incorporated into clinical visits, may assist health care professionals to better detect depression in people with MS. It is anticipated that outcomes from the study will then support clinicians to improve both the detection and management of depression in this population. This will ultimately lead to improved quality of life for people with MS.

Updated 20 January 2021

Updated: 19 January, 2021

Stages of the research process

Fundamental laboratory
Research

Laboratory research that investigates scientific theories behind the possible causes, disease progression, ways to diagnose and better treat MS.

Lab to clinic timeline: 10+ years

Translational
Research

Research that builds on fundamental scientific research to develop new therapies, medical procedures or diagnostics and advances it closer to the clinic.

Lab to clinic timeline: 5+ years

Clinical Studies
and Clinical Trials

Clinical research is the culmination of fundamental and translational research turning those research discoveries into treatments and interventions for people with MS.

Lab to clinic timeline: 1-5 years