What You Can Do for Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

• Get plenty of rest
• Return to your normal activities gradually
• Avoid activities that can lead to another brain injury, such as contact sports, until your doctor says you can.
• Ask your doctor when you can drive a car, ride an bike or operate heavy equipment. Your ability to react may be slower following your injury.
• Ask your doctor when you can return to work or school, and do so gradually.
• Take only the medications that your doctor has prescribed. Alcohol and non-prescribed drugs are particularly damaging to someone with a brain injury.
• Consult your doctor prior to taking any vitamins or supplements.
• If it’s harder to remember things, write them down.
• Try to do the same things at the same time, everyday. This will help you reestablish your daily routines.
• If you are depressed, seek professional help.

Things you can do if you are caring for someone with a brain injury…

• Take the time to learn about what happened to your loved one and what physical, cognitive, or behavioral changes occurred as a result.
• Look for community, national, written and online resources to assist you and your injured family member.
• Develop good relationships with professionals and do your best to communicate clearly.
• Take care of yourself, and make time for fun and relaxation.
• Find a local support group, counselor or spiritual mentor.
• See problems as opportunities in disguise.
• Maintain confidence that you can make things better.
• Contact your local caregiver resource center.