"Will I ever feel normal again?" Brain injuries interrupt our lives and can cause confusing and distressing symptoms. A traumatic brain injury can range from mild (e.g. a sports-related injury resulting in brief loss of consciousness) to more serious (e.g. coma resulting from a motor vehicle collision). Although there is a natural healing process that begins, symptoms can pose a challenge during the period of recovery, and impact thinking, emotions, and behavior. In the case of more severe injuries, questions can persist about long-term abilities and functioning.
Neuropsychological evaluation can address some of the questions that arise following brain injury, including the following:
- Is it time to return to work (or resume classes, etc.)?
- Am I safe to go back to normal activities, such as driving?
- Why do I feel irritable (or sad, or disconnected, etc.)? How can I handle this?
- What can I do to help my own recovery? Should I avoid certain activities?
When there are significant concerns about returning to work, or classes, or resuming normal activities in general (e.g. driving), a neuropsychological evaluation can provide a sensitive and detailed picture of functioning, so that specific, practical recommendations can be made to assist a return to activities, or accommodations to help compensate for any persisting symptoms, to aim at the best possible recovery.
For those who may have recently experienced a concussion, you are encouraged to speak with your family physician about any concerns you may have. In addition, Lakeshore Neuropsychology would be happy to provide you with a free handout that many people have found helpful in navigating the days and weeks following a concussion. Please call our offices for further information.