A Qualitative Exploration of Stroke Survivors' Experiences of Using a Stroke Helpline

Background: StrokeLine is a stroke-specific helpline used by stroke survivors and their families in Australia to access professional support. There has been little research exploring stroke survivors' experiences of using helplines and their perceived impact on their stroke recovery. Aim: The aim of this study is to explore the reasons prompting stroke survivors to call StrokeLine and their experiences and to describe the perceived impact of calling StrokeLine on their recovery. Methods: An exploratory descriptive qualitative study was undertaken using thematic analysis of data collected through semi-structured interviews of stroke survivors between December 2020 and May 2022. Participants were recruited using purposive sampling. Interviews were conducted via audio-recorded Zoom conference calling and transcribed verbatim for thematic analysis. Results: A total of eight callers (four men and women women) participated, with the time since stroke ranging from 3.5 months to 5 years. Four major themes were identified, including 17 sub-themes. Key themes included (1) factors prompting use of StrokeLine; (2) experience of using StrokeLine; (3) perceived impact of using StrokeLine; and (4) conceptualising StrokeLine service provision. Conclusions: Participants perceived their experience of contacting StrokeLine as having a positive impact on their stroke recovery, leaving them feeling empowered and motivated to self-manage their condition. Patient or Public Contribution: Stroke survivors with lived experience influenced the conceptualisation of this study through conversations with consumers and the Stroke Foundation. Eight stroke survivors were involved as participants in the research study.