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The Importance of Support

Everyone needs support in their life at one time or another. Sometimes a simple phone call may be all that is needed. Other times, more support from a professional or a group may be required.

Natural supports

We often don’t think about the many supports that are already in our daily lives. Until they are gone, we may never even stop to think about them. For example, think of the many people you have contact with during the day and how each person makes your life better in some way. They may be people you rely on for something - for example, your doctor, lawyer or mechanic. Just as important are your personal relationships. Think about having phone calls with friends or family, getting together for a cup of coffee, sharing special events, or joining the daily chit chat with co-workers. Activities are another type of natural support. For example, taking a walk helps reduce stress, having a hobby leads to pride in making something, or volunteering helps others. These activities and relationships are what is called natural supports.

When someone has a brain injury, these natural supports usually change. They fall apart and disappear for some. Others find that only bits and pieces remain. The remaining supports may or may not be enough to pull them through daily needs and challenges.

It is easy to feel overwhelmed by this tragedy with its losses. It is common to feel helpless and hopeless at times while struggling to cope and adjust. Many look toward others to put back together the pieces of their lives. This is human nature. We may wonder why shouldn’t someone else do it for us, haven’t we gone through enough? Dealing with your feelings and creating new supports will help you and your family cope with the many losses and changes in your lives.

Peer support

Most people find that being with others who have similar experiences lessens the feeling of being alone. This is peer support. It can be found with an individual or a group. Peer support can help you learn from others and help you rebuild your life. It helps build friendships with people who understand your feelings and what you are going through. Many state Brain Injury Associations offer programs, support groups or drop-in sessions to build peer support. However, when an individual’s emotions and feelings are complicated or do not lessen over time, additional professional supports may be needed.

Tips for seeking peer support…questions to ask

• How alike or different are these members from me?
• How common or different are their issues from mine?
• What type of format is used for meetings, i.e. discussions, lectures, activities?
• Is there a formal leader?
• How often do they meet?