Multiple sclerosis (MS) affects the brain and spinal cord, causing symptoms like vision loss, weakness and difficulty walking. Canada has one of the highest rates of MS in the world. So, understanding what contributes to this disease is especially important here. This research project will look at how mental health issues during childhood and the teenage years can affect the risk of developing MS.

In Manitoba, a large amount of health data is collected as part of managing the health system. We will look at anonymized health information from the Manitoba Centre for Health Policy. By reviewing health records of young people in Manitoba, we aim to find out whether those who had mental health challenges like depression or anxiety during their younger years are more likely to develop MS as they grow older. We will also look at whether medications for these mental health issues, such as antidepressants, could reduce the risk of MS.

To do this, we will assess visits to doctors, hospital admissions and drug prescriptions. This will help us to identify psychiatric problems and MS. Then, we will look at the link between psychiatric disorders and the development of MS. This will give us insights that could lead to better prevention and treatment strategies for MS.

This study is important because it might help us find ways to prevent MS or reduce its impact by addressing mental health issues early in life. Ultimately, this research aims to pave the way for better health strategies that could improve personal health.