Traumatic brain injuries, or TBIs, can cause sudden and unpleasant side effects, many of which impact your ability to function in your typical day-to-day routines.
In addition to the side effects outlined in part one of our discussion on how a TBI can make returning to work difficult, other worrisome symptoms can make the transition increasingly complicated.
Communication difficulties
Because even a mild TBI impacts your brain cells, you may find it harder to communicate effectively during the healing period. Head injuries may make comprehension or word formulation more difficult, causing disorganized thoughts or trouble concentrating on conversations or important documents.
A TBI can also impact your social skills. Many suffering from a brain injury experience problems with social cues at work, which can result in awkward or unpleasant interactions. The mood changes that often accompany a TBI may also produce symptoms of depression, anxiety or mood swings that increase distress or irritability, which can make it more difficult to interact agreeably with your coworkers.
Reduced coordination
Regardless of your industry, focus and coordination are both crucial to your successful job performance. Unfortunately, a TBI can cause:
- Significant vertigo
- Trouble with balance
- Persistent dizziness
- Decreased hand-eye coordination
- Sensory disturbances
These impairments may lead to mistakes on the job that range from simple errors to more dangerous slipups. It is crucial to prioritize your health and safety during the recovery process, as mistakes are more likely to occur if you return to work too quickly or do too much when resuming employment.
Because it can take time to heal from a TBI, seeking financial compensation for your injury can ease some of the stress of rehabilitation and allow you to return to work when you are truly ready.