Ongoing journeys of loss and gain : an interpretative phenomenological analysis into partners' experiences of trauma and posttraumatic stress

Traumatic and life threatening events can have a profound impact on the physical and psychological wellbeing of those who experience them. Limited research has been conducted into the impact upon partners of people who have experienced trauma and subsequent Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). This study aimed to explore such experiences. Six partners of service users awaiting or undergoing treatment for PTSD at a specialist Trauma Service were interviewed. The data was analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (Smith et al, 2009). One final, overarching theme was developed from the data: participants experienced trauma and PTSD as an ongoing journey of loss and gain. Their journeys were characterised by striving and struggling to make sense of the trauma and its ensuing consequences, whilst also grappling with the identities of themselves, their partners and relationships shifting over time. Participants navigated their journeys in the context of external resources and support from friends, family, colleagues and professionals. The results are discussed in relation to existing literature and limitations of the study are highlighted. Further research is recommended to investigate and inform how clinical and non-NHS services can provide appropriate and culturally-sensitive support to families of people with PTSD.