Posted by Individuals suffering from Traumatic Brain Injury often face a lot of uncertainties through no fault of their own. The damage to different parts of the brain especially the deeper structures where memory, learning, decision-making, emotions, and behavior are integrated, processed, and controlled can have serious repercussions in the everyday lives of these individuals. Aside from the physical trauma of the event that led to their brain injury, many have to face changing personalities, bruised social relationships, and diminishing sense of self-esteem and self-worth that many go into deep depression. However, hope is not lost as help is readily available.
The Role of Family and Friends
The family and circle of friends of individuals suffering from TBI can provide the principal means of psychological, emotional, and social support for these individuals. However, they should first understand what their loved one is going through if they want to be effective in becoming the primary support mechanism of this person. As such, families of individuals with TBI often have to undergo counseling themselves so they can better serve and care for their respective loved ones.
For instance, the family can remain calm even if their loved one goes into an emotional outburst. They can provide feedback in a non-threatening, non-judgmental way so as not to agitate the individual further. They can also try to redirect the persons attention so that his or her energies are directed away from the trigger.
For individuals who have become very anxious, their families and friends can help by reducing environmental demands as well as managing unnecessary stresses that may provoke the persons anxiety. Reassuring the person can also help; although care should be taken not to provide false reassurances as this can be another source of anxiety if there is failure in delivery.
The Importance of Support Groups
In addition to families and friends, there are also specialty support groups for each of the problems that people with TBI go through. For instance, there are social support groups for very depressed individuals as well as those who may have difficulty controlling their emotions. While these support groups offer varying results, they are usually considered an important part of a persons recovery from the ill effects of TBI.
Professional Help
Health care professionals provide the best hope for managing the many aspects of Traumatic Brain Injury. Medical doctors can work on reducing the physical manifestations of TBI through the use of medications and other therapeutic modalities. Behavioral and mental health professionals can help in the management of the other aspects of TBI such as anxiety, depression, aggression, PTSD, emotional lability, and many more. Nutritionists can be called upon to work out a plan that will help meet the energy and nutrient requirements of individuals suffering from TBI. Nurses and other members of the care team can work cooperatively and collaboratively with the medical professions in providing renewed hope.
Help is available for people suffering from TBI. It starts with the family and the closest friends. Other interest groups can also help. For the most definitive assistance, however, members of the healthcare profession are available to give hope and bring renewed faith in life.
