Every year, an estimated 1.7 million people sustain a traumatic brain injury (TBI), which is often caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head and in some cases, a penetrating head injury. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 275,000 individuals are hospitalized with a TBI and nearly 80% are treated and released from an ER.

Each individual experiences his or her TBI differently. While some exhibit signs and symptoms right away, others don’t feel the anything until weeks or even months later. Additionally, some TBIs are severe, making for a difficult recovery (and sometimes permanent damage) and others are mild, leaving individuals returning “back to normal” after a short period of time. Regardless of the severity of a TBI, it is a life changing event and not only does it affect the individual with the TBI, but his or her loved ones as well. Here are a few ways that family members can help after a loved one has suffered a TBI:

Understanding a TBI

When someone suffers a traumatic brain injury, the days that follow the injury can be scary, confusing, and frustrating for the individual and his or her loved ones. Someone with a TBI may display numerous cognitive and/or behavioral changes such as amnesia, difficulty concentrating, abnormal laughing or crying, irritability, and persistent repetition of words or actions. Additionally, an individual may become angry, anxious or depressed and have impaired senses. Although a TBI affects the brain, it can affect numerous parts of the body depending on where the injury occurred within the brain.

As a the individual who suffers from the TBI, the signs and symptoms are difficult to understand and it may be hard to communicate his or her needs or feelings. As a caregiver or family member, it can be equally as frustrating because it’s nearly impossible to completely understand what a loved one is going through. The best thing that family members or a caregiver can do is be patient and learn as much information that one can get on TBI, however remembering that all TBIs are different.

How Families are Affected

Depending on the severity of the injury, a TBI may affect a family in a significant way. If for example, the provider of the family has suffered a TBI, it’s likely that there will be a major shift in the household. Everyday chores and tasks may be put on hold and the overall mood of the household may change as well. While the individual with a TBI should continue with his or her treatment plan (whether it’s therapy or a support group), family members should also consider seeking help and gain a better understanding through a support group.

Ways a Family Can Help

Family support and help is crucial after a TBI, but for some individuals suffering from a brain injury, can feel stressful and too dependent. It’s important, as a family member, to foster independence, help maintain normalcy in the home, and be as respectful as possible. While it’s natural to want to take over and be available at all times, family members and caregivers should be careful not to overstimulate or expect too much of an individual healing from a TBI.