Improving Communication After a Traumatic Brain Injury

An accident of any kind can be a life-altering and devastating experience, especially if you’ve suffered a traumatic brain injury. Adjusting to a new way of life for a victim’s loved ones can be a significant challenge as accessing the resources they need can be expensive. Fortunately, at James H. Brown and Associates, our team of experienced traumatic brain injury lawyers can assist your family in attaining the justice and compensation you deserve. Our team is dedicated to supporting you on your journey to recovery throughout the entire process of your claim. Below we’ll discuss some phrases to avoid saying to the traumatic brain injury victim in your life to improve communication with them and be mindful of their situation. We’ll also cover how James H. Brown and Associates can help you and your loved ones get the support, resources, and compensation they need to live their best lives. Continue reading to find out more!

“But You Seem Fine”

The reality of a traumatic brain injury or TBI is that often many of the symptoms are invisible. Fatigue, insomnia, memory and concentration issues, depression, and anxiety are some troubling hidden signs of a TBI. Often these invisible challenges can make a person with a TBI feel invalidated regarding their disability or issues. So while your loved one may look normal, brushing off the hidden signs of a TBI can be belittling and frustrating. A traumatic brain injury can be a catastrophic and life-changing experience. Treating victims with empathy and care is vital to ensuring they feel heard and have access to the support they need to live their best lives after an accident. 

“You’re So Moody”

Along with the previously mentioned symptoms of a TBI, irritability is another common sign that victims and their families must learn to live with. Often irritability manifests because of the TBI accident. However, it can also be a side effect of chronic pain, sleep disorders, depression, or other invisible symptoms. Rather than viewing your loved one’s irritability as a problem, consider it a sort of biological grumpiness that, as a team, you can learn to mitigate. It can be a significant challenge to live with someone who has a traumatic brain injury, especially if they struggle with their anger. Certain prescription medications, supplements, lifestyle changes, and therapies can assist you, and your family cope with these challenges. Again, when living with and loving a person with a TBI, compassion and empathy are essential, along with giving them access to vital support services. If you or a family member has been diagnosed with a traumatic brain injury because of an accident, you may be entitled to compensation that can make accessing these services more affordable and straightforward. 

“Why Do I Have to Repeat Myself So Much?”

No one likes sounding like a broken record repeating themselves regularly. However, memory deficiencies often require additional support for someone who has suffered a traumatic brain injury. This support can come from creating set routines, memo boards, scheduled phone reminders, or professional assistance. Your loved one is likely struggling just as much as you are regarding their TBI and memory issues. That’s why it’s crucial to attain the justice and compensation you and your family deserve after a TBI accident. That compensation and support can alleviate the pressure of financial stress and give your family access to the resources they need to get back on their feet. 

“Your Medication is Pointless”

It’s no secret that prescription medications are expensive and can cause side effects. These vital medications can complicate a victim’s life from insomnia to weight gain, sexual dysfunction, and more. However, blaming a TBI victim’s medicines for all of their symptoms can result in two dangerous events. One, you might end up encouraging your loved one to stop taking a critical medication prematurely. Two, you could be overlooking a genuine sign of a traumatic brain injury that requires a doctor’s trained perspective. When it comes to prescription drugs, it’s best to review them with a doctor who understands TBIs. If you or a loved one has sustained a TBI and requires expensive prescription drugs, you may be entitled to compensation that can make paying for this medication more affordable. 

“You’re Lucky to be Alive”

While the above sentiment may sound like a cheery outlook on life, exercise caution when voicing that opinion to someone with a TBI. People with a TBI are more likely to endure suicidal thoughts, and feelings of survivor guilt and shame often accompany them. Instead of telling your loved one, they’re “lucky,” affirm they’re strong or heroic for continuing to do their best given the circumstances. Many people with TBIs have to contend with repetitive negative thinking or rumination, which can affect their depression or anxiety. If you or a loved one are struggling with mental complications due to a traumatic brain injury. It’s best to seek professional help from a counsellor or psychologist. A personal injury claim can help you and your family attain the justice and the support you need to focus on your journey to recovery. 

Don’t Suffer Alone, James H. Brown and Associates is Here to Help!

The Brain Care Centre is an organization that provides victims with the information, support, and assistance they need after a traumatic brain injury. James H. Brown and Associates is proud to be a significant supporter of the Brain Care Centre. Our team of experienced lawyers understands firsthand the many challenges that victims of TBIs may face. Our firm is a leader in brain injury litigation because we care about the numerous individuals who have suffered a traumatic brain injury due to an accident. We spare no expense when it comes to investigating your case and accident. We can determine the past and future cost of care and loss of income by utilizing top experts. That way, you can achieve the largest settlement possible. At James H. Brown and Associates, we are committed to seeing that our clients get access to the support, compensation and compassion they need to recover as much as possible. 

If you or a loved one has suffered a traumatic brain injury, contact James H. Brown and Associates today!