When someone you love has experienced an injury that involves the brain, the recovery process can be difficult and lengthy. However, we want to give you the tools to make recovery easier. We can’t stress enough how the power of positive thinking can have amazing results. With the right attitude, great physical gains are made possible through rehabilitation.

The Power of the Positive: Research Says it All

Numerous studies have been performed concerning cognitive rehabilitation and a positive approach for people with brain injuries. In one particular body of research, 32 studies were chosen from over 600 possible sources. As data was analyzed from 24 of those studies, it was determined that the use of cognitive rehabilitation and positive thinking had a major impact on subjects involved in the studies. In addition to providing memory stimulation, many individuals felt less anxiety. They experienced a boost to their confidence and were able to interact more effectively with family and friends.

An Encouraging Word Can Go a Long Way

When you and your loved one’s rehabilitation team has a positive attitude, it will begin to rub off. A person with a brain injury will often feel overwhelmed by the effects of that injury. Depression and frustration are common as one recognizes that life has changed and it is no longer possible to do things in the same way. When you and those providing therapy offer positive comments, praise, and encouragement every step of the way, you’ll begin to see positive results. Every time that your loved one makes progress, it is a victory and cause for celebration. Be sure to always offer immediate feedback, giving your loved one a boost to his or her self-esteem, fostering a positive attitude. When a person with a brain injury feels good about himself or herself, it will make it easier to push on and find the way to recovery. While it is true that life with a traumatic brain injury will be different, the main goal is to reach the highest level of functioning that is possible. That can only happen when the person of such an injury has an excellent support network that is always pushing a person to do more each day, unlocking the potential within.

Finding Ways to Stimulate Brain Activity at Home

Recovery from a brain injury is an ongoing effort. It doesn’t only happen during a therapy session. You, your family, and friends can help the person with a brain injury with a variety of activities that can be performed at home or on the go. You should choose activities that will actually exercise the brain. Combined with positive thinking, you’ll find that stimulation of the brain can truly have a great impact on your loved one. Be sure to engage your loved one every day in conversation. Establish a regular routine and be consistent. Talk to your loved one about the steps that need to be followed throughout the day for various activities. For example, if you are making breakfast, talk about what is needed as you get ready to eat. Find tasks that your loved one can do to feel useful, exercise the brain in the process and stay active.  You’ll also find that there are a variety of websites that offer brain games that are specifically designed for those with a brain injury. Take a look around your home and you’ll be surprised at the resources that you already have. You can use your board games and a deck of cards to offer your loved one activity that will stretch the brain, improving cognitive functioning. Don’t forget to check out children’s workbooks that are at an appropriate level for your loved one. Anything that targets cognitive abilities will be helpful. You can even try simple memory games, asking questions, and encouraging your loved one to hold a conversation. Always remember that patience and being positive is a must.

Let TryMunity Help You

As a social network and advocacy website for those who have been affected by a brain injury, TryMunity is here to offer you an online support network when you need it most. Share your experiences and learn valuable information from others who are going through similar struggles. You will find that it is much easier to overcome a brain injury when you have helping hands. Sign up for TryMunity today and be a part of a community that aims to improve the lives of those with a brain injury.