Background/Aims:
Mental health challenges are common after stroke, with prevalence estimates of 30% for depression, 25% for anxiety, and 25% for post-traumatic stress symptoms. Families and carers are also impacted. A lack of appropriate information and support leaves many people unable to identify mental health issues or navigate services. The Mental Health and Wellbeing Co-design Project aimed to improve mental health and wellbeing outcomes for survivors of stroke, families and carers.
Methods:
A co-design methodology, informed by design thinking and the EPIS (Exploration, Preparation, Implementation, Sustainment) framework, guided development of a prototype Mental Health and Wellbeing Program Model. The model was iteratively tested and refined through co-design workshops. Mixed method lived experience engagement was embedded throughout, from guiding principles to design and delivery of pilot components.
Results:
The project produced a co-designed, evidence-based Mental Health and Wellbeing Program Model ready for future implementation. Preliminary evaluation demonstrated improvements to information and support, with priority components trialled including pilot mental health training for peer support group facilitators nationally; an interactive webinar series co-delivered by StrokeLine and a person with lived experience; and enhanced mental health messaging for the My Stroke Journey resource.
Conclusion:
Co-design enabled development of a long-term program model while delivering immediate, practical improvements. Embedding lived experience strengthened relevance, acceptability and feasibility, positioning the model for future implementation and evaluation to improve post-stroke mental health outcomes.