BRAIN INJURY 101: Self Care
There are many things one can do to take care of one’s self. For example, getting adequate rest and exercise. Eat healthy meals, drink plenty of water. But what do you really enjoy? (Now please realize, I am speaking as a survivor with a brain injury, not as a professional.)
I recall years ago when my husband was getting ready to undergo cancer treatment, his radiation oncologist asked him what he enjoyed. She then suggested he keep himself occupied with his hobby, which allowed him to keep his focus off his cancer treatment. It can be the same with us who are traumatic brain injury survivors (and spouses, too!)
Finding our “Happy Place”
Was there something you thoroughly enjoyed doing prior to your TBI that you are still able to do? Is there an activity you want to try that may be easy to grasp? I have found that keeping my mind occupied with something I enjoy not only relaxes me but helps me work on my problem-solving skills. It is my “happy place.”
Examples
Birdwatching.
It is the number one hobby for individuals and families in the United States. And guess what? It’s free! Unless you want to feed the birds or invest in binoculars or a spotting scope to see them up close and personal. Who doesn’t enjoy seeing chickadees, robins, nuthatches, eagles or owls? Or hear the honk of a Canada goose as they fly over? Jesus tells us in Matthew 10:29-31, “Are not two sparrows sold for a cent? And yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So do not fear; you are more valuable than many sparrows.” NASB. Enjoy the birds and remember you are valuable to our Heavenly Father.
Cooking /baking.
Are you proficient in the kitchen? Perhaps make a new recipe that you’ve been wanting to try. We recently obtained an “Instant Pot” and I was dying to try the chocolate cake recipe my Mom always made for my family’s birthdays when I was a kid. Fortunately, the recipe was adapted for large and smaller cakes, so I used the small cake proportions and then consulted a friend who also has an Instant Pot.
Reading.
I realize for many who have suffered a TBI, reading may be difficult. However, there are many advancements with technology that may help you in this area. There are audio books you can check out from your local library or purchase through book retailers. Bible study is another helpful thing, should you be so inclined. As a Bible Study leader, I find the “40 Minute Studies” from Precepts Ministries International easy to navigate and not as taxing on the mind. Romans 12:2 states, “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” (NKJV)
Paper crafting and needle work.
Card making and scrapbooking is a marvelous way to spend an afternoon. And with the nation-wide “shelter in place” still in effect, what better time to bring out photos and walk down memory lane? I know of a young man who learned needle point after a severe TBI and has become quite proficient at it. I know another man who has become proficient at fly-tying and was able teach one of his sons the art.
Conclusion:
Now realize, these items are for your enjoyment and self-care. Should you start a project and it becomes stressful, put it aside or ask for help, especially if it involves a kitchen full of food. Other options include jigsaw puzzles, board games (such as Blockus or Yahtzee), card games, crossword puzzles, word searches, checkers and chess. All these activities are good to pass the time, challenge your brain and hopefully bring you joy. Yes, some of them require other people. 😊
All these examples of self-care are things I’ve heard other TBI survivors have accomplished or have done myself. Please realize, everyone is different. Every brain injury is different, resulting in the unique abilities for each of us. I just encourage you to be kind and give grace to yourself. Find your happy place and enjoy.
Note – next week, I will address self-care for the spouse.
