Supporting Loved Ones
Sometimes healing takes longer than anyone expects.
Whether you’re skiing, biking, skating, or just living your day-to-day life, small choices can make a big difference. This page is here to help you learn simple ways to protect your brain, strengthen healthy habits, and feel confident in the steps you take. Even if you’ve never had a concussion, understanding how to care for your brain now can help you stay safe and strong later on.
Guides for Support
You don’t have to face this alone. Finding others who understand can make a huge difference.
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The right words can make a difference. Listen more than you speak, validate their feelings, and avoid minimizing symptoms (“You seem fine” can feel discouraging). Try gentle questions like, “What feels hardest today?” or “Is there anything that makes things easier for you?”
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Some people recovering from brain injuries don’t realize how much they’re struggling. Step in if you notice serious symptoms — confusion, dizziness, fatigue, or emotional changes — especially if they haven’t seen a doctor yet. Encourage medical care and rest.
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It’s not always an easy conversation, but safety is love. Share why it matters to you personally. You could say, “I care about you, and I want you around for a long time — wearing a helmet helps make that happen.”
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Be patient with mood swings, fatigue, or forgetfulness.
Offer help with everyday tasks like meals, errands, or rides to appointments.
Limit loud or crowded environments if they’re sensitive to noise or light.
Celebrate small improvements — progress often happens quietly.
Educate Yourself
Learning more about brain injuries helps you support your loved one with empathy and confidence.
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The right words can make a difference. Listen more than you speak, validate their feelings, and avoid minimizing symptoms (“You seem fine” can feel discouraging). Try gentle questions like, “What feels hardest today?” or “Is there anything that makes things easier for you?”
-
Some people recovering from brain injuries don’t realize how much they’re struggling. Step in if you notice serious symptoms — confusion, dizziness, fatigue, or emotional changes — especially if they haven’t seen a doctor yet. Encourage medical care and rest.
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It’s not always an easy conversation, but safety is love. Share why it matters to you personally. You could say, “I care about you, and I want you around for a long time — wearing a helmet helps make that happen.”
Care for Yourself, Too
Supporting someone through recovery can be emotionally draining. Take breaks, reach out for help, and give yourself the same compassion you offer others.
You can’t pour from an empty cup, and caring for yourself helps you care better for them.
Explore More Resources
Wherever you are in your journey, there’s more here to help you keep learning and healing.
You can keep exploring by visiting:
Just Injured — What Now? to learn the first steps after a concussion.
On the Road to Recovery for tips and tools that support healing.
Living With Lasting Symptoms if you’re managing long-term effects.
Supporting Loved Ones to help someone else through their recovery.
You don’t have to go through this alone — take your time, explore what feels helpful, and know that every page here was made with care for you.
The information provided here is intended for educational and awareness purposes only. It is not medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat any condition. Every brain injury is unique, and recovery looks different for everyone. If you believe you may have a concussion or traumatic brain injury, please seek care from a qualified medical provider who can evaluate your individual needs.