Helping Those Who Suffer from Traumatic Brain Injury

  • Sep 21 2015
  • Gilleon Law Firm, APC

traumatic brain injuryTraumatic brain injury (TBI) can cause serious problems and affect all aspects of a victim’s life. If you have a loved one who has suffered a TBI, there are some steps you can take to help him or her during the recovery process. It is important to keep in mind that every TBI is different. Often, those who have never suffered a TBI do not understand what the victim is going through. In many cases, symptoms are not visible until long after the injury occurred.

Here are a few suggestions on how you can help someone who has suffered a TBI cope with this extremely stressful and frustrating issue:

  • Be Present – Unfortunately, there is little you can actually “do” to help someone who is recovering from a TBI. The important thing is simply to be there and be available to help with whatever the victim may need. Consider bringing over a meal or helping out with tasks around the house. Sometimes just sitting quietly is comforting to someone who may feel confused, afraid or alone after a TBI experience.
  • Offer a Ride – Offer to take the victim to his or her doctor appointments.Sometimes those who suffer a TBI are unable to drive after the accident. You may want to offer to sit in on the appointment. One symptom of TBI is memory loss or inability to remember. Having a second person at the appointment can help the victim with remembering what the doctor said.
  • Avoid Isolation – Many people with TBI will isolate themselves. Be sure to help avoid this by planning a trip to a tranquil flower garden, a relaxing spa or something else the victim will enjoy that can contribute to recovery.
  • Watch the Kids – If the victim has children, it may be overwhelming and exhausting to manage them constantly. Offer help by taking the kids out of the house or keep them overnight so the friend or loved one has time to rest and recharge.

It can take years to recover from a TBI. In some cases, the patient may never fully recover. There are long-lasting effects that those who have not suffered a TBI will not understand. Be sure to avoid putting pressure on your loved one.

If you have a loved one who has suffered a TBI as the result of a negligent action by another person, speak with the personal injury attorneys at the Gilleon Law Firm, APC in San Diego today for information on seeking compensation.


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