A Qualitative Study of Coping Strategies in Persons With Spinal Cord Injury During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Purpose/Objective: The objective of this study was to identify strategies that persons with spinal cord injury (PwSCI) used to cope with COVID-19 pandemic-related challenges. Research Method/Design: This qualitative phenomenological study utilized focus group discussions (FGDs) to collect participants' responses. Two virtual FGDs using Zoom were conducted in June and July, 2021. Each FGD consisted of seven participants with spinal cord injury (SCI) living in communities in Nepal. A thematic analysis approach was used to analyze and interpret the data. Results: Four major themes related to coping strategies PwSCI used during the pandemic were identified: (a) use of social support, (b) serving others, (c) engagement in self-care activities, and (d) positive thinking and creativity. Conclusions/Implications: Findings suggest that many participants used healthy coping strategies to cope with COVID-19 pandemic-related stress and challenges. Identification and reinforcement of healthy coping strategies in PwSCI are essential for health professionals to help these individuals navigate the psychosocial adaptation process during the pandemic.