Resilience and Happiness After Spinal Cord Injury: A Qualitative Study

Top Spinal Cord Inj Rehabil, 2016 · DOI: 10.1310/sci2202-99 · Published: April 1, 2016

Spinal Cord Injury Mental Health Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study explores what helps people with spinal cord injuries (SCI) bounce back from challenges and feel happy. Researchers analyzed comments from a survey of individuals with SCI to find common themes related to resilience and well-being. The study found that factors like a positive outlook, strong social support, and a connection to faith or spirituality were often linked to happiness and resilience. On the other hand, chronic pain and physical difficulties seemed to make it harder for people to bounce back. Overall, the study suggests that resilience after SCI isn't just about individual strength, but also about having the right support and mindset. These findings can help healthcare professionals better understand and support people with SCI in their journey to recovery and well-being.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

231 individuals with spinal cord injury

Evidence Level

Cross-sectional survey

Key Findings

1
Resilience was frequently associated with having a positive outlook on life, including optimism and a sense of personal responsibility.
2
Social support from family and friends played a crucial role in enabling individuals with SCI to bounce back, providing tangible assistance, motivation, and a sense of reconnection with their past lives.
3
Religion or faith in a higher power served as a source of support, providing comfort in times of distress, a sense of meaning and purpose, and gratitude for blessings received.

Research Summary

This study investigated factors associated with resilience among individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) through qualitative analyses of written comments from a cross-sectional survey. The analyses identified eight categories related to resilience and happiness: resilience, general outlook on life, social support, religion/faith, physical health, mood, comparisons, and resources. The findings suggest that personality, social support, and spiritual connection are associated with adjustment and resilience, while pain and physical challenges are linked to a limited ability to bounce back.

Practical Implications

Clinical Practice

Clinicians should incorporate qualitative findings to understand the process of successful adjustment after SCI, informing well-directed treatment plans.

Assessment Modification

Assessment findings may require modification or expansion of the underlying clinical framework to better address individual needs.

Future Research

Continued research using a qualitative approach is needed to fully identify, understand, and appreciate the positive aspects of transformation after SCI.

Study Limitations

1
Self-selection bias due to the voluntary nature of the survey.
2
The sample may be weighted towards individuals with the energy and motivation to participate.
3
The study relied on self-reported data, which may be subject to recall bias or social desirability bias.

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