Co-design of an intervention exploring meaning and purpose after spinal cord injury

PurposeRebuilding a strong sense of meaning and purpose following trauma is a vital contributor to post-traumatic growth and adapting well to a spinal cord injury. This project aimed to develop an intervention that used the concept of post-traumatic growth to foster a stronger sense of meaning and purpose in people with a spinal cord injury.MethodsUsing participatory action research methodology, the intervention was designed in an iterative process with health professionals and people with lived experience of spinal cord injury. We developed a ten-week online group program and delivered two pilot programs to 13 participants. We used their feedback to further refine the program before finalisation.ResultsA participatory action research approach resulted in a positive intervention well received by participants and consumer organisations. Feedback suggests the intervention shows promise for improvements in functional and psychosocial outcomes and has long-term viability.ConclusionsThe project successfully developed and delivered a novel program that uses the concept of post-traumatic growth to foster a stronger sense of meaning and purpose. Further implementation of the program with larger numbers will allow for evaluation of the program's effectiveness. Group-based intervention programs based on principles of post-traumatic growth can help people with spinal cord injury explore meaning and purpose.Co-design, development and implementation of interventions help to ensure such programs appeal to consumers, meet their needs, and are sustainable.Interventions can be delivered effectively online.