🧠 Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) can have a lasting impact on someone's life. Here are a few things that individuals with TBI want you to know:

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1️⃣ It's an invisible struggle – Just because you can't see it doesn't mean it's not real. TBI affects us in countless ways, from memory loss to difficulty concentrating.

2️⃣ Patience is key – We might need more time to process information or express ourselves. Understanding and patience can make all the difference in our recovery journey.

3️⃣ Every day is different – TBI symptoms can fluctuate, making it hard to predict how we'll feel or what we'll be capable of. Flexibility and understanding can go a long way.

4️⃣ Emotional challenges are real – TBI can bring on mood swings, anxiety, and depression. Support and empathy can help us navigate these emotional hurdles.

5️⃣ We're still ourselves – TBI may change certain aspects of our lives, but deep down, we're still the same person. Treating us with respect and recognizing our strengths is invaluable.

6️⃣ Fatigue is our constant companion and is a constant battle. Even small activities can drain our energy quickly. Energy levels can fluctuate, and rest is crucial for recovery, so understanding our need for rest is crucial.

7️⃣ Everyday tasks can be overwhelming. Simple things like making decisions or following a conversation can be challenging.

8️⃣ Sensory overload is overwhelming - Loud noises, bright lights, and crowded spaces can be challenging to handle.
Social interactions can be difficult due to loud environments or too much stimuli, it can be overwhelming and exhausting.

9️⃣ Small victories matter: Celebrate every milestone with us, no matter how small. It means the world to have your support.

🔟 Small acts of kindness and inclusion can make a world of difference for someone with TBI. We may struggle with memory, but we still cherish our relationships.

1️⃣1️⃣ Support matters. Having a strong support network can make a world of difference in my recovery and overall well-being.

1️⃣2️⃣ Communication is key - be patient, listen, and give us space to express ourselves. Patience and compassion go a long way when we encounter difficulties in communication.

1️⃣3️⃣ Educate yourself about TBI to break misconceptions and support those affected. ✅ Help raise awareness so others can better understand and support people with a TBI. Advocacy is important.