Along with the many physical ramifications of traumatic brain injury, some people also experience emotional effects. These effects can change a person’s behavior and even make them act in ways far different from before. These changes are often tough for family members to deal with, which is why Brainline.org offers the following helpful advice.
Adjusting to a new disability is rarely easy. Many people are discouraged by their diminished abilities, which often leads to depression symptoms. Depression is characterized by a pervasive feeling of sadness, which can lead to suicidal thoughts and self-harm if treatment isn’t sought. Fortunately, there are many ways depression can be treated. Talk therapy can help a person find moral support while also developing new methods of coping with the stress of life. More serious symptoms can also be treated via anti-depressants, which work to regulate brain chemicals that may be contributing to symptoms.
Depending on the part of the brain that’s been damaged, mood swings can also occur. Serious mood swings can cause bizarre reactions that don’t match the emotional tone or feeling of conversations. Mood swings can also cause bouts of anger that seemingly come out of nowhere, which is difficult for families to cope with. When an outburst occurs, family members should remain calm and refrain from feeding into it. There should also be methods in place that can help a person regain composure, such as soothing language or meditation.
Recovering from a brain injury can also increase a person’s anxiety level a great deal. If the injury occurred due to a traumatic event, such as a car accident, many people experience post-traumatic stress disorder as well. Along with therapy and medication, family should work to create a loving, comforting environment around the person experiencing a traumatic brain injury.
