When your significant other suffers from a traumatic brain injury in Missouri, you may notice a number of changes in your relationship. Some of these differences may feel unnatural and cause stress and anxiety for both of you.
Changes to your previous role and assuming the responsibility of the “primary caretaker” can completely shift the dynamic. Knowing how to navigate this shift can help you proceed with confidence and embrace your new normal.
Be flexible
Both you and your partner will need to extend the other some grace as both of you acclimate to your new roles and responsibilities. According to the Model Systems Knowledge Translation Center, you should refrain from criticizing your partner and the way he or she does things. Both of you will need to recognize that the other may do things differently.
As the caretaker, you will need to be flexible and show patience in dealing with the new demands of caring for someone else. Your partner will need to have flexibility in realizing that you may have limited resources and knowledge as you transition into your new role. When both of you are able to give the other the benefit of the doubt and celebrate each other’s accomplishments with words of praise and admiration, the adjustment may have a more positive outcome.
Ask for help
Adjusting to life with a traumatic brain injury is a big change for everyone. You may need to enlist the help of trusted family members and friends who can help you care for your partner. You can also utilize professional therapy to help you manage your emotions and process everything in a healthy and productive way. Talking with medical professionals about your partner’s needs can enlighten you to some of the challenges you may face so you can feel prepared to confront them head-on.