The consequences of acquired brain injury can be devastating and in some cases, life-changing. Recently, research has been focusing on differing treatments that can be employed, to try and make this process of adjustment after an injury easier.
Statistics released by Headway, the brain injury charity, indicate that an average of 350,000 people are admitted to hospital every year with an acquired brain injury, which can be caused by any number of serious accidents. In the aftermath, survivors of a traumatic brain injnury are faced with not only physical recovery, but the adjustment to psychological challenges – these can include cognitive and communicative difficulties, as well as social and emotional factors, which is why brain injury rehabilitation is so important.
An academic research paper has suggested that there are higher rate of depression among brain injury survivors, however this is not the case for all, as some individuals have reported a greater appreciation for life. The field of positive psychology (detailing the study of positive emotions) has become key to understanding how well-being, and in turn, recovery can be improved.
A trial project, the Brain Injury Solutions and Emotions programme (BISEP) has been applying positive psychology to brain injury survivors. This project puts the principles put forth by Professor Jonathan Evans into practice, who concluded that methods such as focusing on positive events and setting realistic goals, can be used alongside therapeutic exercises to help those with an acquired brain injury adjust to daily life.
Survivors of acquired brain injury may find positive thinking more difficult and therefore see themselves more negatively; a key principle from Professor Evans to counter this is ‘three good things’. The method encourages individuals to focus on positive aspects of their life, by writing down three things that have gone well every week.
This method has been adapted within the BISEP programme. Brain injury survivors meet with a group of fellow survivors to each share one good thing, with initial feedback showing this to have positive consequences.
Why brain injury rehabilitation is important
“The new research is encouraging for the support of those with an acquired brain injury” says David Stothard, managing director of MAPS Medical Reporting.
“It is essential that all aspects of well-being associated with acquired brain injury are fully understood. This focus on positive psychology offers hope to those who may be struggling with the challenges that brain injury can cause.
“These findings emphasise the importance of working with experienced medico-legal experts who can identify the rehabilitation needs for seriously injured accident victims and ensure they are provided with cutting edge treatment.
“At MAPS Medical Reporting we provide access to leading medical experts in their fields, who can both report and advise on treatment recommendations. This ensures that referrals for appropriate treatment take place, to ensure the best quality of life for seriously injured victims.”
MAPS Medical Reporting provides fast access to reputable experts and high quality, specialist medical and medico legal reports to provide its customers with robust medical evidence to expedite both treatment services for the victim and the claims process. Contact us to find out more about how we can support you.