Brain Injury Happens to Families

Depending on the severity of the brain injury, some individuals recover after a relatively rather brief period, while others may require lifelong support. Family members often shoulder the responsibility of caring for their injured loved one long after formal rehabilitation has ended. Unfortunately, most families are not prepared to meet the long-term demands of caring for a family member with a brain injury.

Following a brain injury, family members may experience family strain, depression, anxiety, social isolation, loss of income, as well as a myriad of other challenges. Some family members may notice increased alcohol or substance use. Current research suggests that the impact of a brain injury on the family may last well beyond the acute phase and endure as long as 10-15 years… and sometimes an entire lifetime. Additionally, the impact of a brain injury can even escalate over time. It can feel as you have “no relief”.

Family members adjustment is more negatively impacted by changes in personality, behavior, and emotion. The injured family member’s lack of awareness of changes and limitations may also impact the family’s ability to adjust and cope. Conversely, family members are less negatively impacted by physical and language changes.

Adjustment is a long and difficult process. There are no simple solutions. Much is being asked of you and the demands may feel overwhelming. Developing new coping strategies, communication skills, and problem-solving techniques may help with the adjustment. Counseling and education about the long-term impact on family functioning may alleviate some of the strain. Most importantly, however, it is important to be patient with yourselves. Be compassionate with yourselves – you are learning and growing. You are in a tremendously difficult situation. There will be many challenges, adjustments, and lots and lots of change.

Reference

Caron, G., Campbell, K., Gemeinhardt, M., McFadden, G. (2006). Predictors of Family System Functioning after Brain Injury. Brain Injury, 20(6), 587-600.

Emily Watson, LMFT
Emily Watson Counseling