FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH GENERAL HEALTH AND MENTAL HEALTH IN PEOPLE LIVING WITH CHRONIC NEUROLOGICAL CONDITIONS

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore the factors associated with self-reported general health (SRH) and mental health (SRMH) for adults living in Canada with chronic neurological conditions. A secondary analysis of data from a sample of participants drawn from the Living with the Everyday Impact of a Neurological Condition (LINC) study was conducted. Independent variables were organized according to the Person Environment Occupation (PEO) Model. Linear regression analysis identified factors associated with SRH and SRMH. SRH was most influenced by fatigue and self-efficacy, while SRMH was most influenced by depression and self-efficacy. SRH was negatively associated with fatigue and positively associated with self-efficacy. SRMH was negatively associated with depression and positively associated with self-efficacy. Depression, fatigue and self-efficacy are critical clinical factors that need to be addressed to maximize health for this population.