When someone suffers a severe head injury and they are incapacitated for any period of time, he or she faces a long and difficult road to recovery. Unfortunately, many of the 1.7 million people who suffer these types of injuries in the United States every year will never completely recover from the harm they have suffered. This situation not only affects the patient, but it also affects those who are close to that patient who will be providing support. Many people who are in a position to help those who have suffered a TBI are not sure of how they should proceed.
Below you will find information regarding examples of how loved ones and close friends can provide the support to a traumatic brain injury survivor that he or she will need as the patient fights to recover as completely as possible. You will also find information regarding how you can find outlets for support and help if you or someone you love has suffered a severe head injury and you need reassurance that you’re moving in the right direction.
Logistical Support One of the most obvious yet most important forms of support that loved ones and friends can provide for someone who has suffered a TBI is logistical support. Many people who have been harmed in this manner are not able to drive themselves, and they will need to get to medical appointments and other obligations so that they can go about the business of fighting to get better. Providing this support is vital for those who are willing to engage in this battle.
Emotional Support One of the many challenges faced by people who have suffered a traumatic brain injury involves the emotional difficulties that he or she will face. Most people in this position understand the nature of the injury that they have suffered, but many are unable to comprehend what is happening to them with regards to their feelings. Anger and depression are common results from this situation, and those close to the patient need to help him or her through this difficult time.
Understanding Anyone who has suffered a severe head injury can tell you that their days are long and many of them are dark and difficult. This reality can cause people to act out in ways that may not have been normal for them before they were hurt, and this can be confusing for everyone involved. Loved ones and friends need to display understanding when these situations arise so that guilt is not another difficult emotion that the patient will have to overcome.
If you or someone you love has suffered in this manner, there are options out there for those who want help coping with their traumatic brain injury. The first step towards obtaining this help is always the most difficult, but anyone who wants to maximize his or her recovery needs to take these steps as soon as possible.