Traumatic brain injury, or TBI, can be difficult to understand. Many loved ones want to help, but they do not know exactly what to do. At TryMunity, we know how difficult it can be to support loved ones after an injury. We provide support and hope for people who have sustained traumatic brain injury and their loved ones.

Understand the Difference Between Can’t and Won’t

One of the best ways to support a loved one after an injury is to think in a slightly different way. Different injuries impact people in different ways. Have extra patience and be understanding if your loved one can’t do something like he or she used to. His or her actions might not be intentionally defiant or rude.

Your Loved One Is Still an Important Person and an Adult

Don’t talk down to your loved one or treat him or her like a child. Have conversations like you used to. Also, have a little extra patience with short term memory loss or aphasia (trouble with speech). Let your loved one take his or her time to form the right words, and let him or her repeat the same story or ask the same question a few times in a row. You don’t have to point out every minor issue in social situations.

Suggest Fun Activities That Both of You Used to Enjoy

Training for a triathlon shortly after a traumatic brain injury might not be the best idea. However, you can do more than take a walk. Visit a local lunch spot. Go shopping. Take a trip to the spa. Simply getting out of the house can make a huge difference and offer unprecedented support.

Join the TryMunity Community Today

For more ideas about how to support a loved one, join the TryMunity community. We are all here to help!