Perceived vocational support needs and return-to-work outcomes in the first 12-months post-discharge in individuals with acquired brain injury and spinal cord injury: A retrospective cohort study

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Return to work (RTW) is often viewed as an important outcome following acquired brain injury (ABI) and spinal cord injury (SCI), although not all individuals have vocational goals and many experience barriers to RTW. OBJECTIVE: This study investigated the relationship between RTW and psychosocial functioning at 12-months post-discharge after ABI and SCI and examined patterns of RTW according to perceived need for and receipt of vocational support. METHODS: A file audit was conducted for 69 participants with ABI (n = 44) and SCI (n = 25). Data on employment status and perceived vocational support at 3- and 12-months post-discharge, home and community participation, psychological distress, and health-related quality of life were extracted. RESULTS: Individuals in paid employment at 12-months post-discharge (22%, n = 15) reported significantly better psychosocial functioning at this timepoint compared to those not employed (78% ; n = 54). For those not employed, three subgroups were identified: 1) Did not perceive the need for or receive vocational support (50% ; n = 27); 2) Perceived vocational support needs were unmet (19% ; n = 10); and 3) Perceived and received vocational support (31% ; n = 17). Psychological distress was highest for those who perceived and received vocational support but were not employed. CONCLUSION: RTW was associated with better psychosocial functioning after acquired neurological injury. The findings highlight the need for clinicians to explore and revisit individuals’ perceived need for and preferences for vocational support and monitor the psychological well-being of those with RTW goals that are not yet successful.