Resilience and mental health in individuals with spinal cord injury during the COVID-19 pandemic

Spinal Cord, 2021 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41393-021-00708-3 · Published: September 23, 2021

Spinal Cord Injury COVID-19 Mental Health

Simple Explanation

This study looked at how the COVID-19 pandemic affected the mental and overall health of people with spinal cord injuries (SCI). It considered factors like resilience, access to caregivers and medical supplies, and worries about healthcare and finances. The study found that resilience, or the ability to bounce back from difficulties, played a big role in how well people with SCI coped during the pandemic. Those with less resilience, and those worried about medical care, struggled more. The findings suggest that healthcare providers should check for resilience in people with SCI, especially during crises. Providing resources to build resilience could help improve their wellbeing.

Study Duration

May 1, 2020 and August 31, 2020

Participants

187 community dwelling adults with SCI

Evidence Level

Cross-sectional, observational study

Key Findings

1
Incomplete injury, concern about medical rationing, medical supply disruption, and social isolation predicted a greater perceived impact of the pandemic on overall heath.
2
Younger age, decreased resilience, and concern about medical rationing and social isolation predicted greater perceived impact of the pandemic on mental health.
3
Decreased resilience and concern about ﬁnances, medical rationing, and social isolation predicted lower QoL.

Research Summary

This study examined the relationships between resilience, access to resources, and concerns related to the COVID-19 pandemic on the overall and mental health of individuals with SCI. The study found that factors such as resilience, concern about medical rationing, access to medical supplies, and social isolation significantly impacted the overall and mental health of individuals with SCI during the pandemic. The results suggest that interventions aimed at enhancing resilience and addressing concerns related to healthcare access and social isolation may be beneficial in mitigating the negative effects of crises on the SCI community.

Practical Implications

Resilience Screening

Screen individuals with SCI for resilience levels to identify those at risk for poorer health outcomes during crises.

Resource Provision

Provide resources and interventions to enhance resilience in individuals with SCI, particularly during challenging times.

Advocacy and Policy

Advocate for policies that ensure fair access to healthcare and address social isolation among individuals with SCI.

Study Limitations

1
Disproportionately White and male participants
2
Participants nearly exclusively residing in private residences in the United States
3
Sample selection bias due to recruitment methods, including using social media platforms

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