Impact of psychological characteristics in self-management in individuals with traumatic spinal cord injury

Spinal Cord, 2016 · DOI: 10.1038/sc.2015.91 · Published: June 9, 2015

Spinal Cord Injury Patient Experience Mental Health

Simple Explanation

Individuals with spinal cord injuries often face secondary medical issues and psychological challenges such as depression. This study investigates how psychological factors like self-confidence, control over one's life, and active participation in one's health management are linked to depression in people with traumatic spinal cord injuries. The study found that individuals with probable depression reported lower self-efficacy, less mastery over their lives, and were less actively involved in managing their health compared to those without depression. Higher anxiety levels and a shorter time since the injury were also associated with depression. The findings suggest that interventions aimed at improving self-management skills, specifically targeting self-efficacy and mastery, could potentially reduce depression and improve the overall quality of life for individuals with traumatic spinal cord injuries.

Study Duration

January to June 2013

Participants

99 community-dwelling individuals with traumatic SCI

Evidence Level

Cross-sectional survey

Key Findings

1
Lower self-efficacy and mastery scores were associated with probable depression status in individuals with traumatic SCI.
2
Higher anxiety scores were significantly associated with probable depression.
3
Decreased time since injury and older age were significantly associated with probable depression status.

Research Summary

This cross-sectional study examined the association between psychological characteristics in self-management and probable depression status in individuals with a traumatic SCI. The study found that lower self-efficacy, mastery, and patient activation, as well as higher anxiety, were associated with probable depression. Less time since injury and older age were also associated with depression status. The authors suggest that interventions targeting self-efficacy and mastery could improve depression and overall quality of life in individuals with SCI.

Practical Implications

Targeted Interventions

Rehabilitation programs should focus on enhancing self-efficacy and mastery to combat depression in individuals with SCI.

Anxiety Management

Address anxiety concurrently with depression in self-management programs for individuals with SCI.

Long-Term Support

Provide ongoing support and interventions, particularly early after injury and for older adults with SCI, to prevent or manage depression.

Study Limitations

1
The sample may represent a more engaged and healthier group of individuals with traumatic SCI.
2
The cross-sectional design cannot establish causal links between depression and psychological characteristics.
3
Self-report measures of psychological outcome are subjective and may present a testing bias.

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