Suffering a debilitating injury can substantially change your life. One day you may have full function over your body, and the next day, you could have trouble completing even the most basic tasks because you suffered a brain injury in a car accident or other event. If this scenario is your reality, you have a long road ahead of you.
The effects of a traumatic brain injury differ from person to person. In any case, someone who suffers a head injury should immediately seek medical attention because even a seemingly minor injury could prove more severe than it initially looks. Of course, your main concern after such an injury is likely your recovery.
Recovering from a TBI
Unfortunately, recovering from a TBI, especially a severe one, can be an extended and extensive process. Some individuals may never fully recover from the injury. Because each injury is different, the amount of time it takes to recover and the amount of progress made also differs. You may see more or less progress than someone who suffered a similar injury around the same time.
Several factors could also impact the rate and amount of progress, including the following examples:
- The severity of the injury
- Your overall health
- Your support system
- Any resulting disabilities
Without support and a willingness to improve, your progress could be greatly hindered. Low self-esteem and a disheartened attitude toward recovery can also make it more difficult.
Areas of improvement
Though treatments for traumatic brain injuries can differ, rehabilitation programs that work to improve functions cover a variety of areas. Some areas covered include:
- Communication skills, such as speech and writing
- Pain management, such as finding the best options for you
- Mobility skills, such as using wheelchairs and working on walking
- Socialization skills, such as interaction with others
- Family support, such as learning how to adapt to changing lifestyles
- Education, such as learning about the injury, your needs and how to adapt
- Vocational training, such as gaining new work-related skills
- Physical care, such as understanding nutritional needs and medications
- Self-care skills, such as bathing, dressing, eating and grooming
Rehabilitation can also include other aspects of life that you may need to relearn how to handle due to your injury. As you can see, a TBI can drastically change your life. If a negligent party caused the incident that led to your TBI, you may have reason to seek compensation from that person to cover medical costs associated with treatment and rehabilitation as well as other damages permitted under New Jersey state law.
