Exploring the experiences of residents and their families in an alcohol-related brain injury residential rehabilitation unit in Northern Ireland: a qualitative study

Anne Campbell*, Sharon Millen, Uisce Jordan, Diane Watson, Joy Watson, Roger McCorry

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

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Abstract

Objective: Limited research exists on comprehensive interventions for individuals with Alcohol Related Brain Injury (ARBI). Exploring the impact of a rehabilitation service on individuals with ARBI and their relatives/caregivers, this study aimed to gain insights into their experiences and assess how the service influenced cognitive functioning, psychological well-being, social relationships, community engagement, and the desire for abstinence.

Method: This was a qualitative, semi structured interview study as part of a larger mixed methods study of residents and their family members. Data was collected over 4 timepoints with n = 20 residents: baseline (n = 20 interviews), 6 months (n = 15 interviews), 12 months (n = 6 interviews) and at discharge (n = 8 interviews). The interviews took place at a specialist residential rehabilitation facility for people with ARBI. Remote interviews were conducted with family members (n = 10). A thematic analysis of transcripts using NVivo software was undertaken.

Results: Qualitative findings for residents with ARBI across 4 timepoints from baseline to time of discharge indicated an improvement in all outcomes. Overall, residents reported that the ARBI holistic intervention improved psychological wellbeing, social relationships/community participation, functioning abilities, and abstinence from alcohol, particularly when residents were residing in the unit. Family members and carers presented more trepidation regarding the long-term impacts.

Conclusion: Whilst the residential unit provided structure and a protective environment, residents required ongoing support post discharge for their addictive behaviours. An outreach intervention for these individuals is currently being piloted.


Original languageEnglish
Article number1397428
Number of pages8
JournalFrontiers in Public Health
Volume12
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 01 Nov 2024

Keywords

  • alcohol related brain injury
  • qualitative
  • service user views
  • rehabilitation unit
  • substance use recovery
  • residential rehabilitation
  • Northern Ireland

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