Head injury

Description

Head injury affects approximately 1 in 300 families in England and Wales. It happens 'out of the blue' - without warning and therefore can be a bewildering and frightening experience, and frequently has a dramatic and sometimes devastating effect on the lives of the people involved. The sudden onset and the uncertainty surrounding recovery means that head injury often presents families with a wide array of emotions such as fear, guilt and sadness. With no previous experiences to guide them, people with head injury and their families can feel overwhelmed. This book begins with essential information about head injury including basic knowledge about the brain and how it is damaged. The book goes on to explore typical problems associated with a head injury and how to cope with specific issues. The third section provides support and guidance about how to deal with the long term consequences of a head injury, including information on where to find further support. Head Injury: The Facts is a family guide to understanding and coping with the practical and emotional problems that head injury brings. Content: Preface and Foreword 1. Coping with head injury: introduction and overview 2. How the brain works and how it is damaged 3. Treatment and recovery after head injury 4. Changes in physical functioning 5. Changes in thinking skills 6. Changes in speech, language and communication 7. Changes in emotions and behaviour 8. Changes in sexual functioning 9. Family issues after head injury 10. Helping children cope with head injury in the family 11. The longer term Resources and further reading Information for younger children (aged 7-10) Information for young people (aged 11-15) Glossary and Index