Post-stroke emotionalism (PSE): a qualitative longitudinal study exploring individuals’ experience with PSE

Abstract

Purpose: Post-stroke emotionalism (PSE) is a common consequence of stroke characterised by episodes of crying or laughing. There is only one published qualitative study exploring the experience of emotionalism to date. This study aimed to explore individual’s experience of PSE and develop a theoretical client-derived framework to shape future psychological interventions. Materials and methods: A primary analysis of the qualitative pseudonymised pre-collected semi-structured interview data of the TEARS study was completed. Participants were recruited from nine acute stroke units in Scotland with participants commencing the study at baseline (two-weeks) and they either continued or dropped out. Interviews were completed at two-weeks, six-months and 12-months post-stroke. Results: Data was analysed from 52 participants at two-weeks, 25 participants at six-months and 23 participants at 12-months. Three major themes were identified: “In the moment,” describing characteristics and triggers, “Ways of coping,” highlighted a variation of coping strategies including avoidance or acceptance and “Impact,” outlining the longer-term effects of PSE such as individuals’ beliefs. Conclusion: The results indicate specific psychological aspects of PSE which could be viable targets in psychological interventions such as increasing adaptive coping strategies and challenging negatively held beliefs.IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION Emotionalism can cause emotional consequences such as distress, embarrassment and fear. Helping individuals to develop insight into triggers for emotionalism could be beneficial to help gain understanding and awareness whereby post-stroke emotionalism (PSE) has the potential to be anticipated and adapted to psychologically. Potential adaptive responses such as acceptance or control and better anticipation of episodes of emotionalism could help to reduce the emotional consequences of PSE.