Brain Injury Awareness Month

Brain Injury Awareness

Does this sound familiar:  “but you look fine!”?

So many have. 

And many are not fine.

Brain injuries are often invisible, and unless the person with the injury discloses their injury, they “look fine”.

Statistics show that 50% of Canadians lack knowledge about brain injuries and because of this, we dedicate the month of June for brain injury awareness. Spreading awareness is one of the most vital ways through which we can reduce the prevalence of brain injuries and increase general understanding of what living with a brain injury is like for those affected. In addition to providing information, a dedicated month for awareness promotes solidarity to those living with, what is most often, an invisible disability, while reminding those affected by a brain injury that there are supports for them, and most importantly, that they are not alone in their journey.

Brain injuries vary from person to person. Often, the injuries impact every aspect of a person’s life. It is challenging to know what the long-term emotional, physical, cognitive or behavioral effects will be, and this can make it difficult to learn how to live with the changes and challenges that come with a brain injury.

On the surface people may see that a person with a brain injury looks healthy and “normal”; however, what they don’t see includes the private struggles – noise sensitivity, trouble communicating, visual disturbances, grief, sleep issues, dizziness, anxiety, depression, pain, fatigue, word-finding issues, inability to express oneself. 
At other times, a person with a brain injury may be perceived as being rude, when the reality is, the person may be in survival mode and coping the best that they can. 
Some behaviors that may be misinterpreted may include:

•    Not responding to calls
•    Acting distant
•    Postponing things
•    Saying NO to invitations or requests
•    Setting boundaries which may seem inflexible
•    Lacking excitement to meet new people
•    Changing plans last minute/deciding to stay in
•    Leaving events early

People impacted by brain injuries need support, understanding, and patience. The recovery is long, and often a journey with many ups and downs.

Many people experience challenges with their mental health after a brain injury, and this can be made worse by feelings of isolation and hopelessness. Usual coping strategies may no longer be useful, and the way one sees themselves and how they engage in the world has dramatically changed. Remember, while those thoughts and feelings are   valid, there is hope and the ability to learn and grow in new ways. 

Some strategies include:
•    Practicing mindfulness: Slow down, observe the moment, and be fully present. Techniques like deep breathing, meditation, and mindful walking can help reduce stress and increase focus.

•    Set achievable goals: have both long-term and short term goals for yourself, and practice not expecting more from yourself than you’re currently capable of; you can always move the finish line further as you continue to learn about and manage your injury

•    Ask for help: Don't hesitate to lean on the people in your life; they want to support you. Reach out to friends, family, or support groups when you need assistance or just someone to talk to.

•    Continue doing things that bring you joy: have some fun – whatever that may be. 

•    Create a routine/schedule: this can help decrease feelings of overwhelm and confusion, and support one in feeling as though they can manage their day and tasks.

•    Social activities: engage in activities outside of your home with a friend or a group. Volunteer or just have yourself a coffee at your local java-house. 

•    Therapy and Group Support: Having a safe person, outside of your immediate personal support group, can be beneficial; and, knowing people who have similar experiences and understand the difficulty of the journey post brain-injury can increase feelings of belonging and decrease feelings of isolation. 

If you’ve suffered from a brain injury, you know adjusting to life afterwards can  be difficult, and this is where it’s helpful to know you are not alone. With the support of your friends, family, community, healthcare professionals and your local brain injury association it is possible to understand your brain injury, the impacts it can have and how you can manage changes to your life in a way that allows you to find fulfillment and happiness post injury. Contact Walmsley EFAP, and we can connect you with a counsellor who can support and guide you through any challenges you may be facing.