Brain Injury Types of Self-Care

Starting a self-care routine following a brain injury could improve long term recovery outcomes. Although many patients recover from mild traumatic brain injuries, also known as concussions, ignoring symptoms and returning to regular activities too soon tends to cause more harm later on. Even a mild traumatic brain injury/concussion can become serious weeks or months after the initial injury.

Mental and Emotional care - Mental health is just as important as your physical health. This can be as simple as journaling, spending time outside, attending a religious service, or calling a loved one. Healthy coping skills take practice, particularly when emotional regulation is affected by brain injury. The LoveYourBrain website includes research and exercises.

Physical Care – eating properly and staying hydrated. Continue some form of daily exercise program based on your abilities that includes something aerobic and some strength training.

Social Self-Care - Staying connected to your friends is important to your overall well-being. Relationships work best when they are cared for and maintained. Healthy boundaries are also an important component of social self-care. Everyone has different social needs so you will have to find the right balance and level of social engagement that works best for you.

Spiritual - Growing research shows that spirituality or religion as a part of your lifestyle improves your wellbeing. Spiritual self-care does not necessarily mean practicing religion. Spirituality can include anything that connects you to the universe or deepens your sense of meaning.