Stigma following acquired brain injury and spinal cord injury: relationship to psychological distress and community integration in the first-year post-discharge.

Lower functional status and use of a power wheelchair after acquired neurological injury may increase the experience of stigma.Individuals with acquired brain injury or spinal cord injury who perceive high levels of stigma in the first few months post-discharge are more likely to experience poorer long-term community integration.The first few months post-discharge represent an important phase for health professionals to support individuals to explore their beliefs regarding disability and injury-related self-appraisals and enhance connection to their community.