The Application of Third-Wave Therapies to Psychological Wellbeing following Stroke

Stroke has a major impact on the health and wellbeing of the world’s
population. As well as physical health difficulties, many people experience
psychological distress, which can also impact on recovery. There is,
however, little known about which psychological interventions may be
beneficial to psychological wellbeing following stroke.
There is growing interest in the application of third-wave therapies in
this area. A literature review found eight studies where this type of
intervention has been used with stroke survivors, five group studies and
three case studies. The methodological quality of these was generally low;
however, they provided data regarding the potential benefits of third-wave
therapies. These benefits included reducing symptoms of anxiety and
depression, improving physical health, and helping people to live valued
lives. This is a good starting point for further work; however, it was unclear
which aspects of third-wave therapies were important.
To address this, a Q methodology study was designed which aimed
to explore the components of third-wave therapies and their relevance to
people’s psychological wellbeing following a stroke.
Ten participants were recruited from inpatient stroke wards. They
sorted 40 statements which represented different components related to
third-wave therapies. A two-factor solution was uncovered, with a third
unique viewpoint also retained. Factor one revealed the importance of
values and committed action, which was related to psychological wellbeing
following stroke. Factor two was characterised as creative hopelessness, with
people accepting that they need help, being focused on the past and
future. Viewpoint three was defined as a disconnection from humanity with a
lack of compassion for self and others. Three statements were identified
which could be used to identify an individual’s viewpoint. This could provide
a helpful way to think about the most appropriate intervention for an
individual following stroke.
The final paper provides reflections on the research process.