SIG Mood & Cognition
Supporting emotional wellbeing, cognitive health, and collaborative rehabilitation in Multiple Sclerosis
SIG Mood & Cognition
About us
The Special Interest Group (SIG) Mood & Cognition is dedicated to enhancing the understanding, treatment, and integration of psychological and neuropsychological care in the rehabilitation of people with Multiple Sclerosis (PwMS).
By combining scientific research, clinical expertise, and cross-border collaboration, the SIG promotes evidence-based approaches to support the emotional and cognitive wellbeing of individuals living with Multiple Sclerosis. Its meetings encourage open dialogue, shared challenges, and mutual support among practitioners and researchers.
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➜ Who participates
This SIG welcomes psychologists, neuropsychologists, and mental health professionals working in Multiple Sclerosis rehabilitation. It also encourages collaboration with researchers and clinical experts aiming to better understand and treat the psychological and cognitive effects of Multiple Sclerosis.
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➜ How it started
The group evolved from collaborative efforts in the 1990s within European Multiple Sclerosis rehabilitation networks, including contributions to major publications and joint conferences. It formally became a SIG in 1997, building on a strong foundation of multidisciplinary research and peer exchange.
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➜ Our goals
• Promote evidence-based understanding of psychological and cognitive issues in Multiple Sclerosis
• Stimulate and support international research collaboration
• Share clinical experiences and strategies
• Provide a peer network for emotional and professional support
• Raise awareness of psychological aspects of Multiple Sclerosis in the broader rehabilitation community
Meetings & Reports
SIG Mood & Cognition brings together professionals to share insights on psychological and cognitive care in Multiple Sclerosis through focused lectures, case discussions, and collaborative planning sessions. These meetings are designed to bridge research with day-to-day clinical practice, fostering a space where new international projects can take shape.
New psychologists, neuropsychologists, and mental health professionals are encouraged to participate and contribute to this growing body of work.
Members
Etienne Bisson
Geert Poelmans
Hanne Tiainen
Natalia Paredes-Acuna
Nicola Omalley
Philipp Zimmer
R. Bertoni
Sara Hayes
Tatjana Garve
Alice Bellosta
Costanza Iester
J. Medina
Publications
Joint publications of the SIG Mood & Cognition Group
- "In 2018 we published a scoping review regarding sexual dysfunctions and its rehabilitation in MS in relation to cognition and psychological issues in a peer reviewed journal. The work was funded by a RIMS grant." Read more
- "In 2013 we published the Cognitive manual 'Good neuropsychological practice in MS' on RIMS website." Download HERE
- "In 2006 the SIG members published two booklets on RIMS Website: 'Personality and behaviour' and 'Emotional reactions'." Download HERE
International publications of the SIG Mood & Cognition Members
- "Jill S. Fischer, PhD, Frederik W. Folley, PhD, James E. Aikens, PhD, Dean Ericson, PhD, Stephen M. Rao, PhD, and Steve Shindell, PhD. What do we really know about cognitive dysfunction, affective disorders, and stress in multiple sclerosis? A practitioner’s guide." J Neuro Rehab 1994, 8 (3): 151-164.
- "Jill S. Fischer. Cognitive impairment in multiple sclerosis." Mellen Center for MS Treatment and Research, Cleveland Clinic Foundation. Cleveland, Ohio. ?, 233-255, 2001.
- "R.H.B. Benedict, A. Shapiro, Roger Priore, C. Miller, F. Munschauer, L. Jacobs. Neuropsychological counseling improves social behavior in cognitively-impaired multiple sclerosis patients." Multiple Sclerosis (2000) 6, 391-396, 2000 Arnold.
Take a look at all different publications from SIG Mood & Cognition here.
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