Individuals with traumatic brain injuries perceptions and experiences of returning to work in South Africa

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to identify the central concepts of a model that would facilitate the return to work process of individuals with brain injury. However for the purpose of this paper there will be a focus only on the barriers and facilitators that influence the return to work process. Participants: Ten individuals who were diagnosed with a mild to moderate brain injury participated in this study. Methods: Qualitative research methods were used in order to explore the research question. The participants were selected by means of purposive sampling and the data was collected by means of in depth interviews. Results: The results of the study revealed that the participants experienced a sense of loss of function after the brain injury, a fear of the future and loss of confidence in their worker roles. The participants also indicated that by means of adapting occupational routines and actively engaging in rehabilitation they developed confidence in their worker roles. Conclusion: Occupational therapists have to use a client centred holistic work integrative approach in order to successfully rehabilitate as well as facilitate the return to work process with people who have suffered a traumatic brain injury.