"I moved from simply being to actively living." A qualitative study on peer mentorship camps for adults with acquired brain injury.

Abstract

Purpose: This study explored the experiences of an Active Rehabilitation peer mentorship camp on individuals with acquired brain injury (mentees) and its impact on their daily lives.

Methods: The research involved field observations and longitudinal interviews with 18 mentees attending an Active Rehabilitation camp in Norway. Data were narratively analyzed using the Self-determination theory for insight and discussion.

Results: Three themes were constructed from the analysis. The first theme, "Striking a balance between rest and activity," reflects how mentees managed post-injury fatigue and how camp experiences enhanced their understanding and coping strategies. The second theme, "Rebuilding who I am," addresses stigma, reduced self-esteem, and acceptance challenges faced by mentees, revealing positive effects from camp participation. The third theme, "Finding a new flock," describes the reduction in social circles after injury and how interactions at the camp expanded their peer networks during and after the camp.

Conclusions: Active Rehabilitation camps enhance community-based rehabilitation for individuals with acquired brain injury by improving knowledge, boosting self-esteem, and broadening social networks. It is recommended that camp providers assess the impact of room-sharing and devise strategies for personalizing camp activities and effectively matching mentees and peer mentors.