Problem-Solving Therapy for Depressive Symptoms and Quality of Life in Stroke Survivor-Caregiver Dyads

The purpose of this feasibility study is to determine whether it is practical and helpful to provide problem-solving therapy to stroke survivors and their spouses/partners (caregivers) together. It will also compare the experiences of participants who receive problem-solving therapy to those who receive stroke-related health education. Many stroke survivors and caregivers report feeling sad or blue at some point after the stroke. These feelings can impact quality of life. Encountering problems is a part of daily life. These problems can be big or small, but sometimes they can pile up and feel overwhelming, contributing to feelings of sadness. Problem-solving therapy is a tool that teaches structured ways to address current problems or challenges in your life. Participants who are assigned to receive problem-solving therapy will work with a research team member for six, one-hour sessions. During each session, participants will identify a problem (big or small) and create a plan to work on that problem. Participants who are assigned to receive stroke-related health education will work with a research team member who will teach them about various topics related to stroke over six, one-hour sessions. Each session will cover information about a different topic related to stroke. Outcomes data will be collected at approximately 4 weeks, 8 weeks, and 13 weeks from baseline.