"A period of limbo": The experience of being a male family member of a person in a prolonged disorder of consciousness (PDoC); an Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis.
Neuropsychological rehabilitation June 2, 2025 Connor Watkins, Kim Gordon, Gemma Mercer et al. 1 citation
Male family members of people with prolonged disorders of consciousness face profound emotional challenges as they navigate uncertainty, search for meaning, and engage with the care system. Interviews with six men in the UK reveal three key themes: the emotional journey of facing the unknown, finding meaning and moving forward, and the landscape of care. The men describe efforts to build resilience and make sense of their situation. The findings suggest that healthcare professionals should adopt a family-oriented approach that provides understanding, compassion, holistic support, and collaborative care.