For Families Dealing with Brain Injuries

A brain injury can be particularly difficult for the loved ones of the injured. The nature of brain injuries means they come out of nowhere, hitting the family and friends of the injured unexpectedly. Suddenly, they must take on the role of caregiver, while also dealing with the grief that comes with having someone close to you be irreversibly hurt.

A Team of Caretakers

The first thing for families of a brain injured individual to remember is that they mustn’t try to approach the injury by themselves. Many people with brain injuries require around the clock care, and adjusting to a family member with behavioral changes is hard enough in itself. While close family members are undoubtedly the most important people in the recovery process, a team of healthcare workers is involved and responsible for the injured person’s health. Nurses, physical therapists, primary care physicians, and even recreation therapists can all become important players in the team approach to dealing with brain injury.

Slow Gains

Aside from not trying to take on the challenge of caring for a brain injured person on their own, families and friends must recognize that some brain injuries have slow recoveries. While some days may be great, other times it may seem that all progress has somehow reversed. Inconsistent behavior is common, and gains come slowly over time. Family members can help the healthcare team and their loved one by creating a safe, low-key environment for their recovery, and by asking questions of their healthcare providers. Each healthcare worker will have different advice on ways you can aid the recovery process.

Take Care of Yourself

Depression, and simply feeling stressed out, is common in people taking care of a brain-injured loved one. The brain injury may change the dynamic of the relationship, and if this person is a spouse or child, the changes may be incredibly difficult to face. The brain-injured person’s behavior may be erratic, or they may express hurtful feelings or engage in abusive behavior. Family members may also experience guilt because of their depression, or their inability to “handle” the situation on their own. 

While brain injuries can forever change your life, loved ones must realize that they can pull through the devastation. Therapists, particularly family therapists, can be helpful in dealing with the emotions that can present themselves after a brain injury. Ensuring that you take care of your own needs will mean you will be able to live a happier life, while also doing your best to take care of your family member.

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