Research project: The role of acceptance in adjustment to Meniere's disease

For many chronic conditions, it has been found that the patient’s level of “acceptance” is a critical factor in their treatment. Acceptance is the recognition that a cure for symptoms may not be found and involves the decision to (1) experience symptoms without undertaking unsuccessful attempts to control or avoid them, (2) behave in a way that does not have to associate the illness with disability, and (3) focus on having a good quality of life in spite of illness. Research in people with other chronic conditions such as tinnitus and chronic pain, has shown that a higher level of acceptance is related to a better quality of life, reduced psychological distress and disability, and improved symptoms. However, no research has yet been done to measure the levels of acceptance in people with Ménière’s disease, and suitable questionnaires to carry out such work have not yet been developed.

The primary aim of this study is to create and pilot a questionnaire to measure “vertigo acceptance" and use it to assess the relationship between acceptance and adjustment in people with Vertigo and Ménière’s disease.

Duration: February 2013 – November 2014
Funded: The Meniere’s Society (UK)