Choosing the best brain injury support group requires seeking out a support group that will address the specific needs related to your brain injury. Options for support groups range from those that provide a way to socialize with others in a similar situation to those that provide therapeutic support. Discussing options with your physician may prove to be the best idea when seeking out the best brain injury support group.
Brain injuries can range in severity depending on the location of the injury. Mild brain injuries may affect memory or cognitive functions on a temporary basis. Severe brain injuries can result in long-term affects to the learning processes and physical capabilities of individuals.
When deciding on the best brain injury support group, it’s important to take into account the type of brain injury you, or someone you love, is dealing with. Those recovering from a mild brain injury will likely benefit from being surrounded by those with the same recovery plan and timetables. Individuals recovering from, or adjusting to, serious brain injuries may need specialized support. Seeking out a support group that provides continual support for your specific brain injury is of utmost importance when making your final decision.
Identifying any additional needs or desires you have is another necessary step in determining the best brain injury support group for yourself or a loved one. While some brain injuries are traumatic, such as those that occur from a car accident, others are acquired from incidents outside the scope of a traditional impact-based injury. For instance, strokes, drug abuse and degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s are all considered brain injuries. If you or your loved one suffers from an acquired brain injury, identifying additional help will be an important part of the puzzle when surveying treatment and recovery options. For instance, a support group focused on both treatment for addiction and brain injury recovery would be helpful for those with a brain injury stemming from drug abuse or addiction.
Speaking to your physician represents another option for finding an appropriate brain injury support group. Your physician is likely well-connected to local brain trauma support groups and programs. Ask your physician for several options and contact them to discuss meetings times, location and any transportation services they provide. Some brain injury patients require transportation to and from group meetings, an important need to take into account when making your decision.