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

Abstract

Purpose Rebuilding 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. Methods Using 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. Results A 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. Conclusions The 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.