Bridging the Gap: The Experiences of Males with Traumatic Spinal Cord Injuries

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore the lived experiences of males with spinal cord injuries and the level of mental health care they received post injury in the rehabilitation setting. A transcendental phenomenological method was utilized. Ten men participated in the study. A large gap was found in mental health care. Mental health care was either not addressed or poorly addressed. A significant negative impact on mental health was evident following a spinal cord injury. An element of masculinity and adherence to gender norms impacted the likelihood of discussing and accessing mental health support. Additionally, a transition occurs post injury that involves tremendous grief, loss, and adjustment. This study contributes to the conversation about mental health following a spinal cord injury.