Pat is a 65-year-old female who has just been discharged from hospital following a stroke. She is very nervous and worried about going home even though her husband is going to be there to support and assist her. Due to the fact the stroke was quite extensive it has caused Pat to have weakness on one side, which she is really upset about as she is a keen gardener and enjoys playing badminton twice a week, which she had been told she will no longer be able to do.

Pat’s husband, Paul, is worried about Pat becoming depressed as she was normally so active and they enjoyed going on holidays abroad a few times a year. Now Pat is in a wheelchair she probably won’t want to go. Before leaving hospital Pat has been seen by the occupational therapist who has taken Pat on a home visit to see what adaptations needed to be made to allow Pat to return home. She is also having physiotherapy at home to strengthen the muscles in her arm and leg. The GP has been on a home visit to see Pat and Paul and had suggested therapy for Pat to help her come to terms with her life-changing event.

Is there any other help that Pat and Paul could access that could alleviate some of their worries?

Pat and Paul may have financial concerns now Pat isn’t working, looking at benefits they may be entitled too could help remove some of that concern. Talking to other people who have had strokes or joining an organisation may help support them through the first few months. There are many different websites they could access to get more information on stroke, which again could alleviate some of their concerns. They can also access the specialist stroke nurse.

What common psychological problems can some people have following a stroke?

Pat may be depressed and cry, she may also feel isolated due to the life changing injuries the stroke has caused. She may have difficulties accepting her new life and may grieve for the life she has lost. She may become scared or anxious not knowing what the future may bring. She may even become angry asking why this has happened to her.