This qualitative study explored how 12 individuals with severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) perceived their communication and recovery experiences at 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years post-injury using thematic analysis of discourse samples. Three key themes were identified: the diverse nature of communication recovery, varied experiences of rehabilitation, and recovery as a continuous, lifelong journey, with common concerns including anomia, dysarthria, fatigue, memory difficulties, and conversational challenges. Findings highlight the importance of holistic, multidisciplinary support, social communication intervention, strong social networks, and the use of illness narratives to support identity reconstruction and long-term recovery.
Elbourn, E., Brassel, S., Steel, J., & Togher, L. (2024). Perceptions of communication recovery following traumatic brain injury: A qualitative investigation across 2 years. International Journal of Language & Communication Disorders, 59(2), 463–482. https://doi.org/10.1111/1460-6984.12795