What Influences Engagement in Recovery

Recovery is not only influenced by physical progress, but also by how engaged an individual remains throughout the process. When engagement is affected, recovery can become inconsistent, delayed or more difficult to navigate.

A range of factors can influence engagement, particularly in the early stages of recovery where uncertainty, confidence and clarity around next steps may vary.

To explore this further, we spoke with our Clinical Supervisor from NSP Gill Marr, who shares their clinical perspective on what can influence engagement and how early support may help individuals stay on track throughout recovery.

What does engagement in recovery look like?

How would you describe engagement in the context of recovery?

To enable to build engagement in the context of recovery a person must feel empowered that they are part of the process. That they have choices in their treatment; they can affect the process to achieve a good outcome and be part of a team to make recovery happen

What can influence engagement early on?

What factors can impact how engaged someone is in the early stages of recovery?

Factors that can impact recovery for an injured person are trust and understanding of the process and those involved. Without this, even with support, the person may doubt that recovery is even possible

When engagement starts to decline

What are some signs that someone may be disengaging from recovery?

Failure to take calls, respond to emails or non-attendance of appointments are all signs of disengagement. Even if attending sessions, disinterest displayed by no responsiveness, poor eye contact, not actively engaging the sessions or complete therapy task/homework demonstrate lack of engagement.

Supporting individuals to stay on track

What approaches can help improve or maintain engagement over time?

Allow time to build rapport, hold the space for the person to be heard and as a therapist display this understanding. Continue to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the person’s recovery journey and factors affecting their progress.What approaches can help improve or maintain engagement over time?

Allow time to build rapport, hold the space for the person to be heard and as a therapist display this understanding. Continue to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the person’s recovery journey and factors affecting their progress.

Why engagement matters for outcomes

How does engagement influence overall recovery progression and outcomes?

If an injured person engages well with allied health professionals supporting their recovery, they are more likely to achieve good/better recovery outcome.  The injured person can build a better understanding of the injury and what they can do to help recovery; recovery can be faster as engagement with appropriate support can prevent other issues causing delays.