Navigating Emotional Changes After Brain Injury: What to Expect and How to Cope

Brain injury can affect your emotions in many ways — from mood swings and irritability to anxiety and depression. Understanding these changes helps you respond with compassion and find coping strategies that work.


Common Emotional Changes

  • Mood swings or sudden crying/laughter
  • Increased irritability or frustration
  • Anxiety or feelings of panic
  • Depression or low mood
  • Difficulty controlling anger

These changes happen because brain injury can disrupt areas that regulate emotions and behaviour.


Strategies to Cope

  1. Recognise Your Feelings
    It’s okay to feel overwhelmed or upset. Naming emotions helps manage them.
  2. Develop a Routine
    Structured daily activities provide stability and reduce stress.
  3. Practice Relaxation
    Breathing exercises, meditation, or gentle yoga can calm your mind.
  4. Seek Support
    Talk to trusted friends, family, or a counselor experienced with brain injury.
  5. Stay Active
    Physical activity releases mood-boosting chemicals and improves wellbeing.
  6. Avoid Alcohol and Drugs
    These can worsen emotional instability and interfere with recovery.

When to Get Professional Help

If emotions feel unmanageable or persist for weeks, seek help from healthcare professionals who can offer counselling or medication if needed.


Final Thought

Emotional changes are a normal part of brain injury recovery. With patience, support, and self-care, you can find balance and healing.


🦋 Explore more emotional wellbeing resources in the Wings of Hope Resource Hub.

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