Did you know…
A brain injury refers to damage sustained by the brain after birth, which is neither congenital, degenerative, nor hereditary. Examples include conditions such as stroke, exposure to toxic substances, oxygen deprivation, infectious diseases, and physical trauma.
A Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) specifically denotes an insult to the brain resulting from an external physical force—common instances being struck by, motor vehicle accidents, falls, assaults, sports-related injuries, and proximity to explosions or blast incidents.
Brain injuries can lead to a reduced or altered state of consciousness and impair cognitive abilities or physical functioning. They may also disrupt behavioral or emotional functioning. These impairments could be temporary or permanent and vary in severity from partial functional disability to total psychosocial maladjustment.
Traumatic brain injury (TBI), broadly characterized as "an impact or jolt to the head, or a penetrating brain injury that impairs neurological function," represents a significant yet largely overlooked public health issue. It has frequently been termed the “silent epidemic.”
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) manifests uniquely in each individual, potentially resulting in physical impairments, cognitive deficits, and personality alterations.
My story has many layers however, one particularly challenging aspect is:
BEHAVIORAL CHANGES:
Individuals suffering from a traumatic brain injury (TBI) often encounter numerous obstacles that may not be fully comprehended or are underestimated by others, largely due to common misconceptions surrounding TBI. This condition can profoundly affect the lives of those close to the survivor, as they may feel disconnected or unfamiliar with changes in their loved one's behavior and personality.
Among the most significant challenges families face is the need for patience and understanding.
**Emotional and Behavioral Alterations Following a Traumatic Brain Injury**
The impact of a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) extends beyond physical symptoms, significantly affecting emotional and behavioral capacities.
Are you acquainted with someone who has sustained a traumatic brain injury (TBI)?
Do you, yourself, live with the effects of a brain injury?
Have you ever noticed any behavior, cognition, or personality alterations in individuals who have experienced a TBI? If so, what changes did you observe?
Some changes I have experienced:
Apathy
Fluctuating emotions
Loss of inhibition
Irritability
Depression
Denial or lack of awareness
I am compelled to share my story in the hope that it may provide guidance and support to fellow traumatic brain injury (TBI) survivors, their caregivers, or friends who find themselves uncertain of where to seek help. Additionally, I strive to raise awareness about this invisible disorder. According to the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, approximately 5.3 million individuals in the United States are currently living with disabilities related to TBI.
My goal extends beyond merely raising awareness; I aim to support individuals undergoing life transitions who may be uncertain about where to begin, what resources are accessible, and the type of support available. Having personally navigated the complex process of healing following a brain injury—an ongoing journey—I have discovered effective strategies for coping and recovery. My objective is to provide support, ensuring others do not experience isolation during their journeys.