Exploring work stressors and resources and their perceived effects on symptoms and work ability in employees with multiple sclerosis: a qualitative study.

BACKGROUND: Adverse working conditions can lead to reduced working hours, career changes, or early exit from the workforce among employees with multiple sclerosis. The aim of the present study was to explore work-related stressors and resources, as well as their effects on symptoms and work ability, as perceived by employees with multiple sclerosis in Germany. METHODS: Semi-structured interviews were conducted via video conference and telephone. The interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using MAXQDA and qualitative content analysis according to Kuckartz. RESULTS: Of the 26 participants (73.1% women, mean age 38.4 years, SD = 10.2), 73.1% worked full-time and 26.9% part-time (> 19 h) across various sectors, including, e.g., public services, healthcare, IT, trade and industry, and crafts. Stressors and resources were categorized into three groups: (1) work-related factors (work contents and demands, work organization, and workplace conditions), (2) social factors (relationship with supervisors and colleagues), and (3) person-related factors (self-expectations, attitudes towards work and handling of the disease). Reported work stressors contributed to symptoms, such as fatigue, sensory disturbances, and cognitive and visual impairments, which impacted work ability. Reported work resources enhanced cognition and fine motor skills, distracted participants from focusing on their disease, and fostered motivation and energy to carry out their profession. CONCLUSIONS: The results provide insights into which factors are essential for improving well-being and work ability in employees with multiple sclerosis. Based on these findings, workplace interventions and adaptations can be considered to enable employees with multiple sclerosis to remain in the workforce for a longer time. CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER: Not applicable.