It is heartbreaking when a loved one becomes injured due to an accident at work. One of the more common but serious results of a work accident, often taking place on a construction site or in a mine, is a head injury that leads to brain damage. The consequences of a brain injury will depend solely on the person and on the nature of the injury, however, it can affect a person in a multitude of ways.
Family members can, of course, find it difficult to adjust to a new life either caring for or adapting to the new behaviors and needs of their loved one. Here are some of the ways that a brain injury can change a person’s behavior.
Changes in personality
Personality changes are very common even with people that have a very mild type of head injury. It’s important to try and adapt to the changes, rather than compare them to how they used to be. They might act in a more withdrawn way, or they may go through angry outbursts.
Amnesia
People who suffer head injuries often experience memory problems. This could be the inability to form new memories, or they may have forgotten things that led up to the time that they became injured.
Learning to cope
As a carer and family member, you might feel lonely and overwhelmed by the changes in your life. It is important to know that there is a great deal of support available. Learning about your options for therapy is a good place to start. You should also inquire about your rights to recoup damages from the entity liable, so that you can pay for therapy and any medical needs that your loved one has.
Source: Caregiver, “Coping with Behavior Problems After Head Injury,” accessed Nov. 17, 2017