Everyday can be challenging for someone with TBI but the holidays bring even more challenges. We have to do a lot of extra things such as buying gifts, putting up decorations, and interacting with more people. We have to maneuver around very busy stores and all the holiday hubbub on the roads and parking lots. The holidays can also be an emotional time because we might think back to our past selves when we could do so much more.
TBI survivors and caregivers should take extra care during this time for rest, finding quiet spaces and doing less of what is expected during the holidays. Those of us with TBI probably are much more settled and can enjoy this time better if we don’t have ALL those decorations all around us. They are overwhelming for our poor brains to process.
You also need to learn to say no to some things. I’ve turned down large family get-togethers in these past years because of all the challenges of interacting, a lot of noise and making your way through the groups of people. And then, of course, we have to remember that when we over-do-it one day we have to pay for it the next.
Find ways to enjoy the holidays with quieter times and less “stuff” that ends up all around us. Keep it simple and you’ll enjoy it more.