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Brain Injury

Tips for Living

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Brain Injury

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  1. Tips for Living With a Traumatic Brain Injury By Kim Anderson

  2. Challenges of Living With TBI • No two brain injuries are exactly the same, and even similar types of injuries can produce completely different symptoms from person to person. It’s important to understand that each person’s recovery journey is unique—what works for one person may not work for another in managing the effects of a TBI. Read on to find out more about the common symptoms those with TBIs may experience.

  3. Cognitive Effects • A traumatic brain injury can result in short or long-term issues impacting cognitive abilities, including the ability to comprehend information, make decisions, retain and use information, pay attention or concentrate, and speak. Ongoing issues with cognition can have a major impact on quality of life and the ability to care for oneself. This Photo by Unknown author is licensed under CC BY-SA. This Photo by Unknown author is licensed under CC BY. This Photo by Unknown author is licensed under CC BY.

  4. Physical Effects • The physical effects of a TBI can vary greatly and change over time depending on the severity of the injury and which area of the brain is affected. Physical effects may range from mild to completely debilitating.  • Persistent headaches, partial or full paralysis, impaired balance or coordination, low energy, fatigue, hearing loss, and sleep disorders are all common. Some who experience a TBI may also develop seizure disorders or nerve problems.

  5. Strategies to Improve Quality of Life With TBI • Trying to cope with a major life change like a TBI can sometimes feel impossible. Even milder effects can disrupt your entire life, including your career or relationships. Many TBI symptoms can be treated with medication, physical therapy, and other interventions.  • When it comes to day-to-day activities, though, there are many things you can do at home to make living with TBI a little easier.

  6. Develop a Routine • Those who struggle with memory after a TBI may be more likely to forget important tasks that many of us take for granted. Developing a daily routine can help those who struggle with planning and organization after a head injury. You can use a whiteboard, Post-It notes, or a mobile phone app to keep track of daily tasks and schedules. • Routines may also help ease anxiety. The less time you have to spend trying to remember what you should do next, the less time you’ll spend feeling frustrated, confused, and anxious. 

  7. Label Your Living Space • Adding labels to items you need regularly can help you navigate your home more easily and quickly. Whether it’s labeling light switches, leaving a short step-by-step reminder on how to use the microwave, or utilizing color-coded stickers to help you remember which medications to take and when, labeling your living space is a simple way to boost a sense of independence and reduce frustration. • For those who may struggle with vision, labels with bright colors and big letters may also help in finding what you need more quickly.

  8. Track Your Symptoms Over Time • Even keeping a simple log of day-to-day symptoms can help you and your doctor determine when treatments or medications are or aren’t working. You can try keeping a more detailed journal as well, which can help you identify your emotions and potential triggers. • If writing is a struggle, there are many voice-to-text apps available that can help you keep track of your thoughts, feelings, and physical symptoms.

  9. Cultivate Patience • Dealing with the emotional and psychological changes a TBI can bring may make it harder to be patient and gentle with oneself. • Practice self-acceptance and self-compassion whenever possible. Allow yourself extra time to complete tasks and ask for help or support when you need it. Support groups and therapy may also be able to help you cultivate these skills.

  10. Simplify Your Life • Especially when you’re in the early stages of recovery from TBI, many tasks and situations may seem overwhelming. Simplify your life as much as possible. This may mean breaking down tasks into even smaller tasks to avoid being overwhelmed.  • For instance, you may find some social situations you used to enjoy to be too overstimulating. Keep in mind that these reactions are normal and understandable, and keep your life as simple as possible while you focus on healing.

  11. For more information go to • https://www.facebook.com/Brain-injury-information-from-Kim-Anderson-153803158664218

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