Managing Behavioral Changes and Mental Health Challenges in TBI Recovery
March 14, 2023
March is Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Awareness Month, and at Orion Homes, we believe that education and awareness about TBIs are critical to improving outcomes for individuals who experience this type of injury. TBIs can have a significant long-term impact on an individual’s physical, emotional, and mental well-being, and it’s essential to understand the full spectrum of recovery, including the emotional toll of these injuries.
Traumatic Brain Injuries are a major public health problem in the United States, with an estimated 2.8 million TBI-related emergency department (ED) visits, hospitalizations, and deaths occurring annually, according to the CDC. The leading causes of TBI are falls, motor vehicle accidents, and blows or jolts to the head. In addition, sports-related injuries, military combat injuries, and physical violence are also common causes. The prevalence of TBI is highest among children and older adults, and males are more likely to sustain a TBI than females.
Managing the behavioral changes, mental health challenges, and emotional toll of traumatic brain injury recovery can be overwhelming. Supporting emotional and mental well-being throughout the entire recovery process is crucial, but it can be a challenging task.
The emotional toll of TBIs can be significant, often causing behavioral changes, depression, anxiety, irritability, and other mental health issues. These changes can be challenging to cope with and may require professional support and guidance to overcome.
A traumatic brain injury (TBI) can have a significant impact on an individual’s behavior, and in turn their daily life and overall well-being. Depending on the severity and location of the injury, a TBI can cause a range of behavioral changes that may be temporary or permanent. The extent of the behavioral challenges can vary greatly, but they are often a result of damage to the areas of the brain that control emotion, cognition, and social behavior.
One of the most common behavioral changes that can occur after a TBI is increased aggression and irritability. Individuals may become easily frustrated and have difficulty controlling their emotions, which can lead to outbursts and confrontations. In some cases, individuals may also experience impulsive behavior and poor judgment, making it difficult for them to make sound decisions.
Another behavioral challenge that can arise after a TBI is social difficulties. Individuals may struggle with communication and have difficulty interpreting social cues, leading to misunderstandings and social isolation. They may also experience changes in personality and have difficulty regulating their emotions, which can make it challenging to maintain relationships.
Cognitive changes can also impact behavior after a TBI. Individuals may experience memory loss and have difficulty with attention and concentration. They may struggle with problem-solving and decision-making, making it challenging to complete tasks and follow through on commitments.
One of the most important aspects of TBI recovery is rehabilitation, which can include a range of services such as cognitive therapy, behavioral therapy, and neuropsychological evaluation. These therapies are designed to help individuals regain lost abilities and develop new skills to compensate for any deficits caused by the TBI.
In addition to rehabilitation, mental health support is also essential for individuals with TBIs. Psychological trauma resulting from the injury can lead to emotional trauma, cognitive impairment, memory loss, and brain damage. As a result, psychological support and counseling can be crucial in helping individuals cope with the emotional toll of their injury.
At Orion Homes, we provide comprehensive mental and behavioral health support to help individuals recover from the emotional toll of their traumatic brain injury. Our team of trained professionals works closely with Residents to develop personalized treatment plans tailored to their specific needs.
One of the primary goals of our program is to support the whole person. We understand that recovery from a TBI is about helping individuals regain control of their lives and cope with the emotional trauma that can result from the injury.
Our team of behavioral health professionals includes licensed therapists (LAC and LPC), a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and a Registered Nurse (RN). We also work closely with outside physicians, psychiatrists and physical therapists. They provide individual and group counseling services, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and other evidence-based therapies to help Residents manage the emotional toll of their injury and develop effective coping strategies. We also support Residents through a range of other services to support their overall well-being, including assistance with their activities of daily living and social and recreational programming to promote physical and emotional wellness.
At Orion Homes, we believe that comprehensive TBI recovery requires a holistic approach that addresses the physical, emotional, and mental well-being of our Residents. Our team is committed to providing the highest level of care and support to help Residents achieve their goals and regain control of their lives.
If you or someone you love has experienced a TBI, don’t hesitate to reach out to Orion Homes for support. Our expert team is here to help you navigate the challenges of TBI recovery and provide you with the support you need to thrive.
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