Routinization as a Factor in the Coping and the Mental Health of Women with Fibromyalgia

Abstract

Previous research has found a two-factor model of habit and routine in daily living to be related to mental health and the occurrence of daily events in the lives of middle-aged and older adults. The study reported in this article extended research on the variable, routinization, to a sample of women with fibromyalgia syndrome, a chronic, debilitating disorder characterized by widespread pain and fatigue. The two factors found previously, Having Order and Routine in Life, and Disliking Disruption, were investigated further. The Having Order variable was significantly related to mental health when level of physical functioning was included in prediction equations, and active coping efforts were effective for the high-order group in improving mental health. The Disliking Disruption factor was not significantly influential. Results are discussed in terms of the therapeutic implications for improving the mental health and coping efforts of people with adjustment-threatening illnesses.