The social network - using social media to support individuals with traumatic brain injury participating in a pilot study weight-loss program

Objectives To (1) describe the process of implementing social media (Facebook group) among individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI) enrolled in a weight-loss intervention; (2) discuss thematic content and logistics as administrators of the Facebook group; (3) provide examples of social media engagement among users, and (4) examine differences in characteristics of social media users versus non-users. Participants Individuals enrolled in a community-based weight-loss program >= 6 months post-TBI, BMI >= 25, 18-64 years, with physician's clearance. Results Of 22 participants, 10 joined the closed Facebook group (M age = 44.4 years) with a median time since injury of 5.5 years. Six of 10 made contributions to the group (M posts = 12.5). 58% of participants who reported mild or moderate impairment utilised the Facebook group, compared to 30% of participants with severe impairment. Facebook users achieved an average weight loss of -6.2 +/- 6.6 pounds after the 12-week core program compared to -5.2 +/- -9.2 pounds among non-users. Facebook users perceived their injuries to be less severe and their time since injury was shorter. Conclusion Future research is needed to evaluate the role of social media within weight-loss interventions to determine if it provides meaningful impacts in weight-loss efforts and engagement among individuals with TBI.