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Review
. 2025 Aug 5:1-12.
doi: 10.1080/09638288.2025.2540070. Online ahead of print.

Posttraumatic growth after stroke: a systematic review and meta-regression

Megan Klass  1 , Kris Rogers  2 , Diana Dorstyn  3 , Ian I Kneebone  1
Affiliations
Free article
Review

Posttraumatic growth after stroke: a systematic review and meta-regression

Megan Klass et al. Disabil Rehabil. .
Free article

Abstract

Purpose: To examine posttraumatic growth (PTG) in stroke survivors, including how PTG evolves over time and factors associated with PTG in this population.

Method: The CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE, ProQuest Health and Medicine and PsycINFO databases were searched up until October 2024 (updated April 2025). The reporting quality of included studies was assessed (Systematic Review Quality Rating Tool for PTG) and a multi-level meta-regression conducted to examine PTG scores at various time points after discharge. PTG correlates were narratively synthesised.

Results: Ten independent studies, involving 1046 stroke survivor participants, were included in this review. Methodological reporting quality across the studies was good. The meta-regression analysis revealed a significant gradual increase in PTG scores at each month post-discharge. Positive correlates of PTG included higher education level, cognitive processing, and social support.

Conclusions: There is potential for positive psychological change after stroke. However, PTG it is not a universal experience. Further research is needed to understand how PTG can be promoted as a therapeutic target to enhance stroke survivors' well-being and long-term adjustment.

Keywords: PTG; Stroke; posttraumatic growth; systematic review; trauma.

Plain language summary

Post-traumatic growth (PTG) gradually develops over time following a stroke.Encouraging stroke survivors to proactively manage the impact of their stroke can foster PTG.Interventions that teach and reinforce cognitive coping skills and strengthen support networks can help stroke survivors develop more adaptive ways of thinking about their traumatic experiences.

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