Surviving the “silent epidemic”: A qualitative exploration of the long-term journey after traumatic brain injury

ABSTRACT

Previous studies examining life after traumatic brain injury (TBI) have taken a predominantly short-term and quantitative perspective, with generally narrow focus, and have not specifically investigated changes in experience over time post-injury to gain a uniquely long-term perspective. This study therefore aimed to qualitatively explore the broad long-term experience of living for 10 years or more with TBI. Thirty participants completed semi-structured interviews investigating the impact of TBI on various life domains, the rehabilitation experience and support received, and overall perspectives of the long-term journey after TBI. Results demonstrated that: (a) although some participants reported full recovery, several experienced persistent physical, cognitive and emotional problems that impacted their independence, employment and interpersonal relationships; (b) early rehabilitation was very helpful, but some participants experienced difficulties accessing ongoing services; (c) family and social support were important to recovery; (d) most participants drew upon inner strength to find positives in their experience. These findings have identified factors that facilitate and impede long-term recovery from TBI, which may inform better support and care for injured individuals over the years after injury to improve their quality of life.

KEYWORDS:

• Traumatic brain injury
• Qualitative
• Long-term recovery

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

The present study forms part of a larger longitudinal study conducted at Monash Epworth Rehabilitation Research Centre, which has funding from the Transport Accident Commission. This funding was used to compensate participants financially.