Brain Injury is Diverse
Brain Injury can be mild to severe. And because the brain controls all functions of our lives, an injury can leave an individual with a number of persistent impairments.
Cognitive - Sometimes referred to as executive functioning, this can include difficulties with attention, memory, communication, reasoning and problem-solving.
Physical - Difficulties may include weakness or lack of coordination in arms or legs, impaired vision, fatigue or sleep problems.
Emotional - Survivors may be more vulnerable to depression and have difficulty controlling anger or anxiety.
Behavioral - This may be seen as a person being impulsive, having difficulty with initiation or sustaining behavior.
Who Survivors Are
Brain injury survivors are survivors not victims. Survivors who have a unique perspective on life and want nothing more but to be treated as equals. No other injury, illness or condition affects the whole of a person like brain injury. People with brain injuries may need to use different strategies to get through the day, but it's not so different from others who use day planners, PDA's and other devices to help them remember things and stay organized. People with brain injuries may need your support and encouragement, but they do not need your pity. They have already overcome many difficulties and their human spirit is not diminished.