Supporting community reintegration after burn injuries

More than 30% of burn survivors report experiencing long-term psychosocial challenges after their injury (Rosenberg et al., 2018; Shokre et al., 2024), including managing social relationships and participating in meaningful activities (Capell et al., 2025). During hospitalization, survivors report symptoms including nightmares and disrupted sleep, post-traumatic stress from their incident, anxiety, depression, hopelessness, and changes in self-identity (Fauerbach et al., 2011; Rosenburg et al., 2018). Burn centers, including the one at Regions Hospital (Regions) in Minnesota, provide comprehensive support systems to address patients’ psychosocial needs throughout their hospitalization. However, patients enter a new phase of recovery as they leave the hospital, and this community reintegration process brings new challenges. As burn survivors return to the community, they must manage their recovery process while adjusting to changes in their sense of self. Occupational therapy practitioners (OTPs) are well-equipped to support these transitions, as they focus holistically on occupational participation, routines, and relationships. Practitioners can support survivors by helping them build confidence, establish new routines, and reconnect with their sense of self outside of the hospital setting.