The Meaning of Work After Acquired Brain Injury

Abstract

The findings described the altered meaning of work 1-5 years after brain injury. This knowledge should lead to an increased understanding among occupational therapists engaged in work rehabilitation after brain injury and can serve as a basis for individualized intervention strategies.

Rehabilitation of adults with dyspraxia: health professionals learning from patients

“…This resonates with previous studies that have described people with various health conditions struggling to cope with work [39], regain a sense of normality [40] or rebuild their lives [41,42]. Family members report struggling to provide the necessary care [43,44] and some diagnoses elicit existential struggles [45].…”

“…Similar to people with schizophrenia, the participants in this study found that their condition affected their ability to 'think straight' and carry out 'even the simplest of occupations' ( [41], p. 66). Like those with an acquired brain injury, they were concerned with regaining mastery of their body and getting back to their normal selves [40]. Not evident in previous accounts are the struggle participants in this study had in giving voice to their thoughts, using objects and organizing tasks.…”

“…Family members report struggling to provide the necessary care [43,44] and some diagnoses elicit existential struggles [45]. Important aspects of those struggles were the ways the health condition impacted everyday activities [39][40][41][42] and affected relationships and how people with the condition were perceived [40,44,45]. Similar to people with schizophrenia, the participants in this study found that their condition affected their ability to 'think straight' and carry out 'even the simplest of occupations' ( [41], p. 66).…”

Metaphoric identity mapping: Facilitating goal setting and engagement in rehabilitation after traumatic brain injury

“…Identity construction thus becomes central to rehabilitation (Klinger, 2005). Johansson and Tham (2006) suggested that pursuit of identity after brain injury is associated with occupational role, but that its meaning may change, with work serving a social need and adding structure to life, but no longer the central feature of identity. Although return to work often serves as a motivator in rehabilitation, the construction of a positive sense of self independent of work identity is often critical to successful outcome.…”

Inter-Professional Clinical Practice Guideline for Vocational Evaluation Following Traumatic Brain Injury: A Systematic and Evidence-Based Approach

“…• Eight review articles [46][47][48][49][50][51][52][53] and 30 quantitative studies reporting factors associated with successful employment outcomes [1,2,. • Six qualitative studies addressing clients' experiences with return to work [82][83][84][85][86][87]. • Three clinical practice guidelines with recommendations specific to vocational evaluation [27,28,88].…”