Brain Injury - The Healing Process

Brain Injury has a traumatic effect on not the only the victim, but also the victim’s family. Often, cognitive, behavioural, and emotional changes can be difficult to witness - especially as victims tend to be in a state of denial about their injury. You may feel as though the person you knew has been replaced by someone else. But rest assured, you can help a loved one fight back against brain injury by having an understanding on how their symptoms work and having a structured method of reclaiming their life. This week, we will look at dealing with the life transition after someone you know suffers from brain injury.

Please remember to create a bespoke plan of action to ensure your loved one receives optimal help. As brain injury is an umbrella term, it is important you know how much to focus on distinct aspects of rehabilitation. Please consult your physician for guidance.

After brain injury, the victim’s lack of control over their mood and behaviour is a common consequence of any serious brain injury. Frequent and notable behavioural changes are anxiety and depression, but also extend to poor behaviour and a loss of memory. Their behaviour may drastically change after suffering, and depending on the severity of damage – they may never be the same again. It may be necessary to see a psychiatrist if depression or anxiety gets out of hand, and ensure they are in an appropriate support group.

Some victim’s behaviour can be unrecognizable – and they may begin acting up and misbehaving. The most effective ways of dealing with bad behaviour is in a firm but fair way. Set limits around their behaviour and how you allow them to treat you.

The first three months are the most essential when recovering from brain injury; and starting early means you can optimize success. During this time ensure you have started all physiotherapy programs, exercises, and seen your occupational therapist. This will aid in regaining communication, social, and personal skills alongside aiding with any emotional struggles you may be experiencing. It can take time adjust to changes – be patient and support each other during the process.

The most effective way of supporting a loved one is to help them form new habits. Depending on the victim’s need, you can help them improve mobility or gain function of certain parts of their body. This type of therapy will allow the patient to reclaim their life in the long term. It is important that you know your limits, and ensure there is a professional program in place. For example, a neurologist can work with your psychiatrist to help improve concentration and mood swings. Your primary doctor will refer you if necessary.

You can also aid in their recovery by encouraging a healthy diet. A healthy body is fertile ground for success, ensure the brain has all the nutrients it needs available to it. You physician will advise you on foods to avoid and alternatives if chewing/shallowing is a problem.

Finally, you can encourage writing things down to encourage neural pathways to heal. In the long-term, this will aid in allowing the victims brain to heal. More importantly, it allows the patient to keep track of calendar appointments, medications, addresses, and an emergency contact number. You could even label things in the patient’s house depending on the severity of damage.

If you would like a plan on how to deal with a recent brain injury, please contact us as it is important you speak to your physician as soon as possible. Contact our switchboard on: (212) 241-6321