Positive Consequences of Surviving a Stroke

Abstract This exploratory study focused on gaining insight into the psychological experience of stroke survivors undergoing inpatient rehabilitation. Specifically it investigated whether stroke survivors undergoing inpatient rehabilitation were able to identify any positive consequence of their stroke. This phenomenon, also know as benefit finding or positive reframing, has recently received more attention in the coping literature examining reactions to severe illness. Using a case series methodology and qualitative analytic techniques, 16 stroke survivors were interviewed using standardized open-ended questions related to identification of positive consequences attributed to surviving a stroke. Sixty-three percent of the patients interviewed were able to identify positive consequences of their stroke. The following five themes regarding positive consequences of stroke emerged from this case series: increased social relationships, increased health awareness, change in religious life, personal growth, and altruism. It was concluded that some individuals who have survived an acute stroke are able to reframe their experience in a positive light. This study provides occupational therapists and others with further insight into the coping mechanisms of those individuals who have survived a stroke. The need for further research is stressed.