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Regulating emotional responses to aphasia to re‐engage in life: a qualitative interview study
Author(s) -
Manning Molly,
MacFarlane Anne,
Hickey Anne,
Galvin Rose,
Franklin Sue
Publication year - 2022
Publication title -
international journal of language and communication disorders
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.101
H-Index - 67
eISSN - 1460-6984
pISSN - 1368-2822
DOI - 10.1111/1460-6984.12702
Subject(s) - psychology , thematic analysis , aphasia , context (archaeology) , psychosocial , psychological intervention , mood , reflexivity , emotional well being , qualitative research , developmental psychology , social psychology , psychotherapist , cognitive psychology , psychiatry , paleontology , social science , sociology , biology
Abstract Background People with post‐stroke aphasia (PWA) are more likely to experience serious mood disorders compared with those without. Emotional regulation may be important for influencing life participation after stroke. Understanding emotional regulation in the context of aphasia is important for promoting personally defined recovery, psychological well‐being and life participation. Aims To explore how individuals experience and regulate negative emotional responses to aphasia as part of re‐engaging with life. Methods & Procedures In‐depth semi‐structured qualitative interviews with 14 PWA were conducted. The focus and design were developed with public and patient involvement contributors. Reflexive thematic analysis was applied. Outcomes & Results Analysis generated three themes, which captured inherent diversity across participants in terms of emotional experiences, responses and regulation strategies: (1) emotional upheaval at all stages of recovery; (2) regulating emotional upheaval; and (3) discerning possibilities for life participation. Emotional regulation occurred both within and without the context of formal support services. Conclusions & Implications Individuals may be differently (en)abled in responding positively, with implications for aphasia psychological support and self‐management interventions. The findings may inform future interventions to optimize well‐being and personally meaningful outcomes for PWA. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS What is already known on the subjectPWA experience significant psychosocial upheaval and are at risk of mood disorders. Emotional regulation may be important for influencing one's emotional state, social participation and relationships after stroke. There is a need to better understand the ways in which PWA experience and regulate their emotions to develop better support for personally defined recovery.What this paper adds to existing knowledgePWA may experience significant and pervasive mood disorders in the long term after stroke. This may be compounded by worries for their children's well‐being. Some, but not all, regulate emotions by drawing on positivity, determination, gratitude or stoicism. Having (supportive) opportunities to experience the impact of aphasia is important for discerning helpful strategies and participation opportunities.What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this work?Confronting altered abilities requires supportive, responsive opportunities sensitive to emotional responses. Opportunities for peer support and/or meaningful emotional support and compassion from family and friends are important therapeutic targets. Therapeutic input should pay attention to any familial and parenting concerns that may be compounding low mood. Although emotional regulation and recovery may occur without formal support, mental health services must be organized in such a way that PWA can access as needed.