TBI survivor, Dr Rob Tennant, has written a piece about how the global pandemic of covid-19 is affecting him. Of course it is affecting everyone, but those of us who already have a health issue are understandably nervous. Read his message below.
Pandemics, by their very nature are rare and unusual. As this pandemic draws out and frays people’s nerves, it can be especially difficult for the TBI community. While my lived experience is from the perspective of being post-TBI, as an educator, I encounter a wide variety of people that need academic accommodations. While I focus on TBI specifically, these recommendations may prove helpful to others as well.
Personally, I have to guard against ruminating on all of the challenging news in the media. Cities going crazy, riots, over one-hundred thousand dead from the COVID-19. (See, it’s easy to descend to that place). Loved ones will often suggest “just think positive, or “don’t dwell on things so much.” They mean well, but it doesn’t lead to a better outcome.
I find it effective to distance myself from the problem that consumes me. For example, if I were dwelling on “will the lockdown ever end?” I would try to look at it from another perspective, and perhaps ask myself, “does the governor really want to close the state down forever?” And I can quickly see that of course they want to resume a robust economy and return to normalcy as soon as possible.
Anxiety is not uncommon during stressful times, especially in this age of mass social media availability. When my mom was anxious about something, she would write it all down. Research shows that this method is also very helpful for neuro-diverse folks, as journaling is effective in dealing with stress, depression, and anxiety.
The pandemic has put the world in a perpetual state of flux and insists that every new change is the “new normal.” Students having to switch to online, parents having to homeschool their children, while working remotely, essential workers still going to work has fueled stress, anxiety and depression in the TBI community. Those with brain injuries can find it challenging to overcome the daily changes to our world. We have to encourage each other that we are going to get through this and uplift each other, so we can make it through.
I have lived with my head injury since 1987. I have found that the challenges that I face are not different from those of the neurotypical. However, the magnitude of the struggles is more extreme. My recommendation for those experiencing these increased challenges is to employ the strategies discussed here, avoid isolation during these challenging times, and seek help if you get overwhelmed. Sometimes, we need the help of professionals to guide us to better days.
If the overwhelmed person is a loved one, listen to them, empathize with them, and be there for them. Most of the time they are not looking for someone to solve the situation, they just need a loving ear to listen. Just remember, most of us had never heard of the Spanish Flu epidemic of 1918, until earlier this year. In time, the fears that dominate the conversation now, will be faded memories told to children and grandchildren.
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7 replies on “Guest Post: Navigating a Brain Injury During a Pandemic”
I like what he said about writing down our anxious thoughts to help cope with pandemic stress. Very helpful post Michelle!
Yes it really does help 🙂
Being able to afford to live on a low income is a real problem sadly. However, you don’t have to buy a mask, using an item that you already own, such as a scarf is better than nothing. It might not be able to deflect as much as a mask which is designed for the purpose, but it’s going to reduce it. Every little helps.
Great article. One thing I think was missing was mentioning how breathing through a mask while you’re already dizzy can increase the unsteadiness and feeling like you’re going to pass out. Those without a TBI seem to have trouble understanding this. Even so, I, personally, still try to wear it. I take an occasional break by pulling it down to allow fresher air in. Pulling it down is frowned upon.
That’s a great point John. It’s a difficult balance to strike (no pun intended) but like you I wear my mask. We all have to do everything we can to slow the spread of the virus.
I personally think that this was much more contagious about six years ago! Only less than .03 percent of the people who do get it, die currently. I missed the boat on masks, just when it was announced when it left china, even before it got to Paris.
Thought about the mask creation, but being on disability have to stay, relying on the gov. Or if I make over I think 1,300 a month, I lose everything, what a bunch of crud that is.
Being able to afford to live on a low income is a real problem sadly. However, you don’t have to buy a mask, using an item that you already own, such as a scarf is better than nothing. It might not be able to deflect as much as a mask which is designed for the purpose, but it’s going to reduce it. Every little helps.