A qualitative exploration of the experiences of individuals with spinal cord injury participating in a community-based online intervention to support posttraumatic growth

PurposeTo date, no evidence-based, community-based online group intervention has been designed specifically to enhance posttraumatic growth (PTG), quality of life (QoL), sense of meaning and purpose, and satisfaction with life following a spinal cord injury (SCI). This qualitative study aims to describe participants' experiences of participating in such a program.MethodsSemi-structured interviews were conducted with 17 people with SCI and analysed using a thematic analysis approach.ResultsFive major themes were identified: longing for connection; empowerment through education and participation; journeying through common experiences; connecting to the program content; and continuing to contemplate PTG and meaning and purpose. The themes represent how participants were drawn to the program because they longed to connect with others in similar situations. Participants engaged in a shared group process of learning and reflection as well as an individual journey in which they connected with different elements of the program. As a result, PTG was seen as a continuous and individual process that evolved out of shared group processes.ConclusionsThis study highlights the importance of addressing psychological needs alongside physical rehabilitation for individuals with SCI. Shared experiences and strength-based approaches can be valuable tools in promoting positive psychological outcomes. This article reports on the impact of a novel community-based, online, group intervention, the Engage program, aimed at facilitating the recognition or generation of post-traumatic growth for people with spinal cord injuries.The program offers a safe space where participants can explore the impact that acquiring a spinal cord injury can have on their sense of meaning and purpose and identify where they could build this again in their lives.Breaking down the concepts of posttraumatic growth (PTG) and meaning and purpose into questions like "what gets me out of bed in the morning" and "what fills my cup" helps people with spinal cord injuries understand and relate to these existential topics.Engaging participants in group conversation and reflection on the concepts of PTG and meaning and purpose helps stimulate individual reflection outside the group.Individual coaching sessions are vital to putting the program content into practice for participants individually.