Psychological Outcome of Stroke and Determinants of Psychological Problems among Stroke Survivors

Psychological problems may significantly impact stroke survivors in their long-term functioning and quality of life, reduce the effects of rehabilitation services and lead to higher mortality rates. Data regarding psychosocial problems among stroke survivors from developing countries are scarce. The objectives of the study were to estimate the proportion of the psychological problems of patients with stroke and identify the determinants of psychological problems among stroke survivors. The study was conducted at Department of Neurology, Medical College Hospital, Thiruvananthapuram, India, using a hospital based Cross sectional design. Patients who had completed two months since the onset of stroke up to five years in the age group of 25–65 years attending Neurology OPD formed the sample for study by consecutive sampling technique (N=310). The proportion of psychological problems of stroke was estimated to be 66.8% with proportion of behavioural problems as 61.9% and emotional problems 65.5%. Duration of stroke, gender, rate of disability and financial status were significant determinants of psychological problems of stroke. Health care professionals must recognize and be sensitive to the profound impact of stroke on psychological wellbeing