Brain Injury and its Effects at Holiday Time.

Having a brain injury often comes with suffering from fatigue over and above that of everyday tiredness.

The excitement of a day out, travelling, crowds and a change in routine can be very challenging for a person with a brain injury. However, days out and holidays can be enjoyed with strategy plans. Be aware of the signs of fatigue, be it the person themselves or their carer, so they can take a rest when needed without getting overwhelmed by it all. Don’t feel the need to be pushed out of your comfort zone. A holiday is meant to be enjoyable, do what makes you feel happy and relaxed. If travelling with friends or family, don’t feel pressured into doing things that you feel will be too much for you. If you are feeling tired say so, take the time to recover and rebuild your energy.

Holidays and days out for a person with a brain injury not only affect that person but their family too. In a child this can have an effect on siblings who are full of energy and wanting to do this and that, be here and there making it very challenging for parents to manage.

As children get older, they want to “fly the nest” and have holidays with friends. Of course, all parents have to face the idea of their child’s first holiday without them, but as a parent with a young person with a brain injury there are added concerns. Will they cope in a new environment? Are the friends they are with aware of what struggles they may encounter? Do they need an adult in the background without “cramping their style”?

You need to always consider the best location, what sort of accommodation is suitable and what activities there are available. With careful planning, days out and holidays can be achieved and enjoyed.

Happy holidays.