The holiday season is a time for family, fun, and festivities. But for people living with a traumatic brain injury, the holiday season can be fraught with challenges. Even those who are able to do everything they did before their injury can feel a sense of overwhelm.

Brain injuries can be caused by a variety of factors, including falls, car accidents, and sports injuries.

There are many types of brain injuries, and they can vary in severity. Brain injuries can be mild, moderate, or severe depending on the injury sustained by the head.

Concussions

A concussion is a form of traumatic brain injury (TBI) that is caused by a blow to the head or body. It is categorized as a temporary loss of normal brain function caused by the impact on the head. The signs and symptoms include headaches, confusion, and memory loss. If you would like to hear Dr. Richard Abbey talk briefly about concussions, this short video may be helpful.

Falls

Falls are another leading cause of traumatic brain injury in people older than 65 years old. To prevent another fall at this time of year, make sure you ask for help if you need assistance carrying objects such as grocery bags or presents.

It’s no wonder that so many people who suffer from TBIs experience increased symptoms during the holiday season.

Here are some tips for how to cope with different types of brain injuries during the holidays:
– Use your calendar or phone to keep track of what events you’re attending throughout this holiday season. This is especially important if you’re doing something new or are in an unfamiliar setting.
– Make sure to get enough rest before going to an event. Social engagements may feel draining for you. It’s okay to let your family know about your TBI and how it is affecting you. If you feel anxious or depressed, reach out to a friend or your doctor. It’s okay to acknowledge that the holidays feel stressful with your TBI symptoms. Don’t forget that stress can be managed with the help of regular gentle exercises like walking or yoga.

Treatment for TBIs

Neurofeedback therapy can help manage symptoms and facilitate recovery after suffering a traumatic brain injury like a concussion or other brain injury.

Brain training like neurofeedback can help improve many of the symptoms linked to TBI. Through unique technology, we can measure your brain’s electrical activity and determine which parts need strengthening and which areas require relaxing.

This brain training therapy may be an effective treatment for you leading up to the holiday season. But remember, with neurofeedback therapy, you’ll likely notice a difference within one to three months. It’s important that you commit to a number of sessions so the results are lasting.

Neurofeedback therapy is not only effective in treating Traumatic Brain Injuries but also other conditions such as ADHD, addictions, anxiety disorders, and OCD. In this video, you can hear Dr. Richard Abbey talk more about neurofeedback therapy.

With all this in mind, it’s essential to take extra steps to ensure your recovery and manage your symptoms during this potentially stressful time. There are a number of things you can do to cope during the holidays if you have experienced a traumatic brain injury.

How to get help to aid your recovery

Don’t forget to ask for help and understanding from those around you. Let your family know about some of the symptoms you are suffering from. Talk to them ahead of time and outline what everyday tasks you have been having trouble with.

You can also chat with our staff at the Abbey Neuropsychology Clinic. Our trained clinicians will be able to answer your questions about creating a personalized treatment plan to support your recovery.