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Qorbani-Vanajemi M, Bahmani B, Azkhosh M, Hejazi E, Azimian M. Meaning in Life in Patients With Multiple Sclerosis: A Systematic Review. Arch Rehabil 2026; 27 (3) :378-397
URL: http://rehabilitationj.uswr.ac.ir/article-1-3715-en.html

Objective Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, progressive neurological condition that, because of its nature, leads to various physical and psychological consequences for patients and their families and may threaten their sense of meaning in life (MIL). The present study aimed to provide an overview of the factors influencing the MIL in people living with multiple sclerosis and to analyze the psychological interventions implemented to improve their sense of meaning. 
Materials & Methods This study is a systematic review. Articles published in English and Persian between 2000 and 2025 were retrieved from Web of Science, ScienceDirect, PubMed, ProQuest, EBSCO, and Persian databases including Magiran, Noormags, SID, and the Comprehensive Portal of Humanities. The initial search identified 55 articles; after removing duplicates and unrelated studies and based on the inclusion criteria, 10 articles were selected for final analysis. Half of the selected studies were conducted in Iran.
Results The findings of this review were consolidated into two overarching domains: (1) factors shaping the perceived MIL among individuals living with multiple sclerosis, including “spirituality and religious beliefs,” “active acceptance of the illness,” “social support and interpersonal relationships,” “engagement in meaningful activities,” “utilization of professional support,” and “efforts to maintain resilience while living with an unpredictable body”; and (2) effective psychological interventions, comprising existential–spiritual approach, cognitive-behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, hope-based interventions, and positive psychology training. Overall, the evidence indicates that these interventions play a significant role in enhancing MIL and improving psychological outcomes among people with multiple sclerosis. 
Conclusion This systematic review highlights that the concept of MIL encompasses multiple dimensions. within the lived experience of individuals with MS, shaped and enhanced through diverse resources. A deeper understanding of these factors and concepts can inform therapists and rehabilitation policymakers, providing a foundation for designing psychological interventions aimed at fostering and improving patients’ sense of MIL. Furthermore, although the reviewed interventions demonstrated effectiveness, most were conducted in Iran; thus, further research in other cultural contexts is recommended.