More than 100,000 people in the UK have Multiple Sclerosis (MS). MS is a lifelong neurological condition that affects the brain and spinal cord – causing a wide range of symptoms. Symptoms can include problems with vision, arm and leg movement, sensation, balance, fatigue and issues with cognition (attention, remembering, planning). The specific symptoms depend on the parts of the nervous system that are affected – that is why MS is different for everyone. Quality of life (overall wellbeing and satisfaction with life) of people with MS is a key focus in the research literature.

There is an increasing awareness that MS can also effect emotional skills – e.g. recognition of emotions in other people. The APHF team are conducting research in this area as part of Professor Louise Phillips’ ongoing research. Specifically, the association between emotional skills (e.g. recognition of emotions in other people) and quality of life is currently being explored.