Brain Injury & the Impact of Coronavirus - Finding Support in Challenging Times
Published on: 29 July 2020From the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic there has been drastic social change at an incredibly fast pace. Everyone, without exception, has faced their own struggles and it is clear that we are all still learning how to adapt to the ‘new normal’. There are certain groups of people however who are experiencing greater hardship than others. Amongst those are individuals with an acquired brain injury.
In response to the government’s guidance on managing the spread of coronavirus, many individuals made the decision to self-isolate and those, who are clinically extremely vulnerable, were advised to shield. Whilst these measures were put in place for the safety of all involved, self-isolation can have a detrimental effect on a person’s mental and physical wellbeing. Being confined to your home for long periods of time can cause feelings of loneliness, anxiety and frustration. In addition, the need to adjust behaviours and adhere to new rules and regulations can be a challenge.
For individuals who rely on practical or social support from carers and friends, the loss of assistance with essential activities such as shopping and cooking, placed them at a greater risk than the remainder of the population. It has been, and continues to be, a time of anxiety for them and their families.
According to a new study published by the charity Headway, more than half of brain injury survivors have lost access to rehabilitation services as a result of lockdown measures. The study showed that 64% of those living with the long-term effects of a brain injury reported a deterioration in their mental health as a result of the measures implemented to control the spread of coronavirus.
Headway UK provides a valuable source of up to date information and advice for individuals with an acquired brain injury and their families. Although a number of Headway groups and branches have had to suspend many of their face-to-face services in accordance with the government’s advice, they are going to great lengths to ensure that help remains available to those who rely on their services.
Headway’s helpline is open to anyone who requires support or information relating to brain injury and can offer reassurance and a friendly voice. These resources can be found online at Headway.org.uk.