De-mystifying Brain Injury - Part Two
In Part One, Brain Injury was defined and discussed. In Part Two, we will talk about what happens immediately following a traumatic brain jury (TBI) and ways of getting help. TBI is a blow to the head, jolt or penetrating wound that causes damage to the brain. It is known as “concussion” in its milder, more temporary form. Each year thousands die from a TBI; but advances in treatment have resulted in more people surviving and therefore the need for long-term, post injury services has increased.
Help for survivors falls into two general categories. First is acute medical care, which is administered immediately following the injury. In hospitals or other facilities this stage often includes a period of rehabilitation to help the person regain a level of physical and mental functioning.
Often, by the time a TBI survivor, family member or friend recognizes the need for help, issues related to a past TBI may have accumulated. Examples include health, social, financial, legal, employment, substance abuse, and interpersonal problems.
The second stage may take months or even years, and involves regaining a life that has been altered by brain injury. This stage may be delayed or complicated by the person’s inability to recognize problems that are linked to the original injury. TBI is often perceived to be like any other physical injury, in that there is an assumption that after it heals a person’s life will be as it was before the injury. There is a stigma associated with brain injury. Denial is common and the individual may become very creative in attempting to compensate for his or her limitations.
If a person is found to have a diagnosis or a history of TBI, a community-based agency such as Making Headway will assess the circumstances and needs of the person referred. Following this step, a variety of services may be available.
Family and Individual Counseling – When a family member sustains a TBI, relationships change.
Counseling can be essential for all those affected.
Community Reintegration – Helping the injured to live more independently by re-learning vital skills.
Case Management – Coordination of social services and assistance with the challenges of living with TBI.
Therapeutic Recreation - Activities that reduce isolation and depression often associated with TBI.
Pre-vocational Services – Help in preparing for a paid or volunteer position.
Each case will vary by particular injury, personality, situation and route to recovery. Making Headway Center for Brain Injury Recovery is the only organization of its kind between San Francisco, California and Portland, Oregon. For more information, call 442-7668 or check out www.mhwcenter.org.
Robert Van Fleet is President of the Board of Directors and Jeffrey Smoller is Director of Community Development for Making Headway Center for Brain Injury Recovery.