Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a leading cause of disability in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 2.8 million Americans sustain a TBI each year. Of those, about 50,000 die from their injury, 280,000 are hospitalized, and the rest are treated and released from emergency departments.
Understanding TBI in Illinois
A TBI occurs when an external force impacts the head hard enough to cause damage to the brain. TBIs do not just happen to certain groups of people. Anyone can experience a TBI at any age. However, data shows that in Illinois, TBIs are most common among:
- Children ages 0-4 years old
- Adults ages 15-44 years old
- Adults ages 65 years and older
Men also have higher rates of TBI-related hospitalizations and deaths compared to women in Illinois.
The Link Between TBI and Mental Health
There is a strong link between experiencing a TBI and developing mental health conditions. Some estimates state that 30% to 50% of individuals with TBI also deal with long-term psychological symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
The reasons for this linkage are complex. First, experiencing a TBI causes physical changes to the brain. Damage to certain areas can make individuals more prone to mood changes, impulsivity, and poor emotional regulation.
Second, surviving a TBI is psychologically traumatic on its own. Facing a life-threatening situation and significant injury often leads to PTSD-like symptoms.
Finally, living with post-TBI disabilities can be extremely challenging. Individuals may grieve the loss of their pre-injury functioning and struggle to cope with new limitations.
Some specific mental health conditions that may arise after a TBI include:
- Depression: Sadness, hopelessness, loss of interest in normal activities, change in appetite, sleep issues, feeling worthless or guilty, fatigue, and suicidal thoughts.
- Anxiety: Excessive fear, panic attacks, hypervigilance, avoidance of situations/places, muscle tension, restlessness, poor concentration.
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): Re-experiencing the trauma through flashbacks or nightmares, hyperarousal, startle reactions, irritability or angry outbursts, and avoidance behaviors.
- Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): Impulsiveness, problems sustaining focus, forgetfulness, poor organization, and time management skills.
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder: Repetitive intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and ritualistic behaviors done to ease anxiety (compulsions).
- Psychosis: Hallucinations, delusions, abnormal thoughts, and speech patterns. Often occurs alongside bipolar disorder or schizophrenia.
- Substance abuse: Using alcohol, illegal drugs, or prescription medications to cope with TBI effects. At risk for addiction.
If you notice any persistent behavioral or mood changes after a TBI, discuss them with a doctor. Ongoing mental health issues should be treated by a specialist like a neuropsychiatrist or neuropsychologist.
Advice for TBI Survivors in Illinois
If you or a loved one experienced a TBI in an accident, here are some tips to help manage both the physical and mental health effects:
Get Proper Medical Care
It is crucial to seek emergency care promptly after a TBI. Be sure to follow all medical advice, attend check-ups, and take medications as prescribed during recovery. For moderate or severe TBIs, inpatient rehabilitation is often recommended to start therapy quickly.
Seek Mental Health Services
Don’t ignore psychological symptoms after a TBI – seek professional mental healthcare. A psychiatrist, psychologist, or counselor with TBI experience can provide therapy and potentially medications to treat conditions like depression and PTSD. Some may specialize in cognitive rehabilitation as well.
Lean on Your Support System
Surround yourself with close family and friends after a TBI. Loved ones can provide emotional support and encouragement during the ups and downs. Joining a local TBI support group may also help you connect with others facing similar challenges.
Make Lifestyle Changes
Getting adequate sleep, maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding alcohol and drugs is important during recovery. Making cognitive activity part of your daily routine can also help retrain your brain. Consider memory exercises, puzzles, reading, or learning new skills.
Be Patient With Yourself
Recovery from a TBI takes time. Progress often happens slowly with some steps forward and backward. Avoid frustration by pacing yourself and celebrating small wins. Maintain realistic expectations day-to-day.
Explore Financial Assistance
Costs associated with a TBI – such as medical bills and lost wages – can quickly add up. Those without adequate insurance may qualify for Social Security and disability benefits. Reach out to healthcare social workers for help navigating available resources.
Seek Legal Counsel
Those who sustain a TBI due to another party’s negligence should consider legal options. An injury attorney can investigate fault, obtain evidence, and negotiate a fair settlement or court award. This compensation can greatly help cover costs, replace lost income, and provide for future medical needs.
Prioritize Communication
Many TBI survivors have difficulty communicating post-injury. Speech therapy often helps retrain language and social skills. When talking to others, go slowly, keep messages simple, and ask for clarification. Repeat back key points to ensure understanding.
Plan and Pace Daily Tasks
Break larger goals into smaller, manageable steps with scheduled rest periods. Monitor fatigue levels and stop activities before getting overly tired. Consistent routines also help those with TBI manage time and reduce cognitive demands.
Modify Your Environment
A calm, distraction-free environment helps cognitive functioning after a TBI. Reduce clutter, post reminders, and keep your space well-lit and quiet. During conversations, choose a quiet area without too much background noise.
Learn Brain Injury Coping Strategies
Work with therapists to identify triggers and develop skills to manage TBI effects. For instance, deep breathing, mindfulness exercises, and sensory approaches can help with overstimulation. Setting phone alerts, keeping a notebook handy, and breaking up tasks can aid memory.
Consulting an Injury Lawyer
If you suffered a traumatic brain injury in an accident caused by negligence in Illinois, consulting a personal injury attorney could be beneficial. An experienced lawyer can help you understand your legal options, obtain compensation, and get access to funds for your recovery.
For a free consultation, contact the experienced team of attorneys at Monge & Associates by calling (888) 477-0597. Our lawyers will evaluate your case at no upfront cost and advise you on the best path forward. With 32 offices in 19 states, including Illinois, Kansas, and Florida, we have the resources to handle even the most complex injury cases while providing one-on-one legal guidance.