Recovery and TBI: Navigating Addiction with a Brain Injury
Recovery is a life journey and it's much like substance abuse recovery. We see headaches and seizures and balance issues, memory loss, impaired judgment, the inability to multitask, impulsiveness, poor self-awareness, mood swings, and we do see a good bit of depression and anxiety after brain injury, and they go right hand in hand with those same issues that people in addiction face.
Ever wondered how a brain injury can complicate addiction recovery? In this episode of 'The Recovery Pastor Podcast', Shan dives into the complex relationship between Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and the road to sobriety. He’s joined by Pat Motley, a Social Worker and Certified Brain Injury Specialist from the Alabama Head Injury Foundation, who brings a wealth of knowledge on the topic.
Together, they explore the various causes of TBI, the significant changes it can bring to an individual's life, and why getting a thorough assessment for past TBIs is crucial for anyone in recovery. The discussion is packed with valuable insights on the symptoms of TBI, including headaches, memory loss, balance issues, and impaired judgment. They also touch on the frequent co-occurrence of depression and anxiety post-injury, which can further complicate addiction recovery.
What makes this episode truly compelling is Shan’s personal account of his own experiences with TBI and addiction, adding a layer of authenticity and relatability to the conversation. The duo also emphasizes the importance of tailored accommodations in substance abuse treatment for brain injury survivors, ensuring they have the best chance at success. Faith plays a central role in their discussion, offering a source of strength and courage for those navigating these dual challenges.
To wrap up, they encourage listeners to visit the Alabama Head Injury Foundation website for more information about TBI. If you’re curious about how brain injuries intersect with addiction recovery, this episode is a must-listen.