Adjusting to life after pediatric stroke: A qualitative study

AimTo examine adjustment after stroke in adolescence from the perspective of affected young people. MethodFourteen participants (10 female) aged 13 to 25 years with a history of ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke in adolescence participated in one-on-one semi-structured interviews at the Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Two independent coders conducted a reflexive thematic analysis. ResultsFive themes were identified as representative of adjustment after stroke: (1) 'Processing the story'; (2) 'Loss and challenges'; (3) 'I've changed'; (4) 'Keys to recovery'; and (5) 'Adjustment and acceptance'. InterpretationThis qualitative study provides medical professionals with a personal, patient-driven lens through which to better understand the challenges of adjusting to life after pediatric stroke. Findings highlight the need to provide mental health support to patients to assist them in processing their stroke and adapting to long-lasting sequelae.