Psychological experiences of family carers of people with spinal cord injury paraplegia: an explorative qualitative study

Abstract

Spinal cord injury paraplegia is a significant health problem in Sri Lanka. This study explores the psychological experiences of family carers of people with such a condition. A descriptive phenomenological study was conducted with 17 parent, sibling, spouse and adult carers. Thematic analysis revealed four themes related to: carer emotions regarding the caring process; feelings related to the family member’s condition; beliefs beyond the physical world; and behaviour changes due to psychological distress. The findings will help develop interventions for the psychological needs of Sri Lankan carers and may provide insight into the experiences of similar Asian communities living globally.