The lived experience of individuals who have sustained severe physical traumatic injuries : implications for counselling

Abstract

This study explored the first-hand experiences of individuals who have sustained severe physical traumatic injuries. A qualitative approach, namely Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), was deemed appropriate. One-time, individual, semi-structured, audio-recorded individual interviews were carried out with six participants. The findings revealed that such traumatic events are sudden disruptions in one's life, encompassing chaos and confusion. The immediate aftermath led to reliance on others during the initial recovery phase. During this phase, healthcare professionals were considered supportive and unhelpful. The findings also capture impacts on the individual’s relationships, physical function, and occupation. Emotional ramifications in the aftermath of the physical traumatic event were also noted, culminating in a grieving process for lost abilities, opportunities, and relationships. In addition, mental health issues and the lack of support from the hospital were also noted. Despite these challenges, participants emphasise the importance of resilience in moving on. The findings yielded recommendations for overall healthcare experience and support for individuals affected by severe physical trauma. Findings recommend further studies with a broader range of participants, including those with acquired permanent disabilities. Specific focus on particular traumatic events, such as road traffic collisions or interpersonal violence, and types of injuries, like traumatic amputations or spinal injuries, is suggested. Research on the timing and effectiveness of counselling and early crisis interventions in hospitals is also recommended. For practical applications, improved communication training for health professionals, incorporating trauma-informed approaches, is crucial for better patient care. Rehabilitation counsellors should provide holistic care, advocating for clients and addressing emotional, employment, academic, and relationship issues, as well as independent living for those with permanent disabilities. Recommendations include enhanced training of health professionals focusing on effective patient communication.