By Daniela Adamantino, RMT

Things never to say to someone with brain injury.

“I bet you’re fine”, “You’re probably faking it”, “It doesn’t look like you’re injured” are a few things you should never say to someone suffering from a brain injury.

FACTS:
1. The brain moves back and forth in the skull after a jolt/blow to the head.
2. The movement of the brain in the skull causes chemical imbalances and the damage of brain cells.
3. And nothing about that is “fine”.

Anyone who suffers from a concussion needs mental and emotional support.

What are some things they might need guidance on?

• Rehabilitation

• Validation and acceptance of their emotions and symptoms

• Someone who will promote recovery

• To feel safe and seen

Concussions are viewed as an “invisible injury” and this unfortunately hinders the recovery process, making it longer and more difficult to overcome.

Typical concussion symptoms last between 10-14 days at baseline for adults and upwards of 4 weeks for children. But unfortunately, most symptoms last for months depending on the severity of the concussion and other underlying issues. Some side effects that we tend to mismanage/forget about are the mental health impacts of the mismanagement and lack of education surrounding this topic. See my last blog ‘The Talk; Concussions’ for common signs and symptoms to be aware of.

Not only are most people suffering silently, but brain injuries also impact personality and mental health. Imagine being in a state of mind where you think you will never feel like yourself again? Where you think you will never be able to live without chronic migraines? Where you can’t you sit in a room with more than 5 people without getting anxious and having a panic attack because it’s too loud?

Need help with concussion rehabilitation, chronic headaches, and other side effects? Let me help you.

Follow Daniela Adamantino, RMT's blog posts

Share This