Life after stroke: exploring social and psychological consequences of stroke survivors and their caregivers

Aim: To explore the social and psychological consequences of stroke among stroke survivors and their caregivers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.Methods: We conducted in-depth interviews with stroke survivors (n=13) and their caregivers (n=13) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Interviews were conducted in Amharic and were audiotaped. After repeated listening to the records and reading the transcripts, a thematic analysis was conducted.Results: Six themes emerged: explanatory model, new body, living on a bread line, psychological toll, elephant in the room, and finding a silver lining. Stroke survivors described stroke as a sudden event that changed their life forever. Some participants attributed it to the devil’s doing, spirit possession (“ልክፍት”) and their sins. Both survivors and their caregivers reported financial crises related tohe disability, inability to return to work, treatment, and transportation costs. Both survivors and caregivers described the psychological tolls such as emotional ups and downs, anxiety, frustration, sleep problem, and suicidal ideation. Survivors reported distancing themselves from social activities or events whereas; caregivers reported that they did not have enough time to be a part of one. Stroke survivors considered surviving the stroke as a blessing. Caregivers say they have set their minds to be thankful to God that they have their loved ones around despite all the limitations.Conclusion: Stroke survivors and their caregivers suffer from financial crises and emotional up and downs. This warrants the need for compressive social and psychological interventions in addition to the usual physical care provided for such cases in low-income countries.