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  4. Effects of a coach-guided video-conferencing expressive writing program on facilitating grief resolution in adults with SCI

Effects of a coach-guided video-conferencing expressive writing program on facilitating grief resolution in adults with SCI

The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine, 2024 · DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2023.2253390 · Published: January 1, 2024

Spinal Cord InjuryMental Health

Simple Explanation

This study investigates if an online expressive writing program, guided by coaches, can help adults with spinal cord injuries (SCI) deal with grief. Participants engaged in weekly video sessions involving expressive writing exercises. The study looked at changes in grief levels, emotional well-being, and social participation. The findings suggest the program can reduce grief and improve certain aspects of well-being, especially for those with more recent injuries.

Study Duration
10 weeks with a 1-month follow-up
Participants
24 adults with SCI
Evidence Level
Not specified

Key Findings

  • 1
    Participants showed significant reductions in grief, trouble sleeping, and difficulty participating in social activities immediately after the program.
  • 2
    At the 1-month follow-up, participants maintained reduced grief and sleep issues, and showed increased feelings of meaning and purpose in life.
  • 3
    Participants with more recent injuries (within 5 years) experienced greater benefits in terms of reduced distress and improved social participation compared to those with older injuries.

Research Summary

This study examined the effects of a coach-guided videoconferencing expressive writing program on grief resolution in adults with SCI. The program led to significant reductions in grief intensity and trouble falling asleep immediately post-program and at 1-month follow-up. Those with more recent injuries seemed to gain more benefits from the program, highlighting the potential for early intervention.

Practical Implications

Accessible Intervention

The videoconferencing format makes mental health support more accessible to individuals with SCI, who may face mobility challenges.

Early Intervention

The findings suggest that expressive writing programs may be particularly beneficial for individuals in the early stages of adjusting to life with SCI.

Group vs. Individual

The study suggests that group expressive writing sessions may enhance grief resolution compared to individual sessions.

Study Limitations

  • 1
    Small sample size
  • 2
    One-group pretest-posttest design
  • 3
    Limited generalizability due to participant demographics (primarily white, highly educated women)

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