It’s true – many people are not aware of what is known as “acquired brain injury” (ABI). ABI is an injury to the brain that happen sometime after birth. ABI’s may result from a number of different causes, including disease, trauma, or even poisoning. An acquired brain injury can have a significant impact on an individual’s cognition, emotion, and behaviour. If you or someone you know has experienced an acquired brain injury, it’s important to seek psychotherapeutic support.
Types of ABI
There are two basic types of ABI: traumatic and non-traumatic. Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is caused by an external force, such as a car accident or a fall. Non-traumatic brain injury (NTBI) is caused by internal factors, such as a stroke or a tumor. The impact of an ABI depends on the severity of the injury and the area of the brain that was affected.
The Impact of ABI on Cognition
Impaired attention is one of the most common cognitive problems caused by ABI. People with ABI often have difficulty sustaining their attention on tasks, which can impact their work performance and/or school functioning. Other common problems include impaired executive functioning (e.g., planning and organizational skills), short-term memory deficits, and problems with visuospatial abilities (e.g., difficulties in activities like reading or driving).
The Impact of ABI on Emotion
Many patients with ABI experience change in their emotions following their injury. Some may become more irritable or easily upset, while others may experience more anxiety or depression. People with ABI also sometimes struggle with impulsivity, anger management, and/or substance abuse problems.
The Impact of ABI on Behaviour
The behavioural changes associated with ABI can be extremely disruptive to peoples’ lives. Common problems include disinhibition (acting without thinking), aggression, impulsive behaviours, and hyperactivity. People with ABI sometimes also engage in self-injurious behaviours and can develop eating disorders.
Psychotherapeutic Support for ABI
If you’ve experienced an acquired brain injury, it is important to seek professional help. Registered psychotherapists can provide you with the support you need to cope with the challenges associated with an ABI. Psychotherapy can help you to develop coping strategies, understand your emotions, and manage your behaviours.
CARESPACE offers multidisciplinary plans of coordinated CARE that include services such as chiropractic, physiotherapy, counselling, and nutrition. We provide individualized care plans that are based on each client’s unique needs. Our team of registered professionals will work with you to develop a plan of care that will help you to live your best life.
Conclusion
If you have experienced an acquired brain injury, it is important to seek professional help so that you can live your best life. Registered psychotherapists can provide you with the support you need to cope with the challenges associated with an ABI. At CARESPACE, we offer multidisciplinary plans of coordinated CARE that include services such as chiropractic, physiotherapy, counselling, and nutrition. We provide individualized care plans that are based on each client’s unique needs. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you!
