Stay Healthy After Traumatic Brain Injury

This infocomic provides information on how to stay healthy after TBI.

My name is Derek. Today’s talking circle is about how to stay healthy after traumatic brain injury or TBI.

People recovering from TBI face challenges with their physical and mental health. This includes keeping other health conditions from affecting recovery, remembering to take medication, and keeping physically and mentally fit.

How to Monitor Your Health and Care for Other Conditions After TBI

Monitor your health - Use tools like phone apps to set reminders and track other health conditions. A smart watch can help track heartrate, steps, and calories.

Prevent and take care of other health conditions

Remember to take your medicine

Schedule a yearly checkup

Stay Physically Fit After TBI

Eat plenty of healthy food

Talk to your health care team about how much exercise is right for you! A goal should be at least 150 minutes per week, but you can start slow (ten minutes a day). Use a variety of exercises.

Avoid another TBI

Buckle up!

The helmet fits perfectly!

This new handrail should help you from falling.

Another TBI can hinder a person’s recovery from their first TBI. It can also make it hard to stay fit. Make sure to practice safety for all activities to avoid another TBI.

Sleep well - Make sure to get at least 7–8 hours of sleep total with a consistent schedule. Avoid food and drinks that might disturb your sleep like caffeine.

Staying Mentally Fit After a TBI - Being grateful can have a positive effect on mental health. Think about what you are grateful for each day and keep track of it.

I am grateful for: My family, My Health, My job, My home

Having some quiet time is key to managing mental health. Even 5 minutes a day can make a difference as one recovers.

Practice being mindful

Inhale 1, 2, 3, 4, exhale, 1, 2, 3, 4.

I am doing great today!

Mindfulness is being aware of what you are thinking and feeling in that moment without judgement. Check-in on yourself, do some calm breathing, and ask yourself how you are doing.

Track your thoughts - Tracking good and bad thoughts through art, journaling, and other activities can help you keep track of your mental health. It can also help you spot problems while recovering.