The Flame Within

Traumatic Brain Injuries; In An Iceberg

I came across this picture of an iceberg a few weeks ago, explaining what it’s like to have a traumatic brain injury. Throughout, my concussion, recovery, and mild TBI, I can completely relate.

What people see on the surface is someone who “looks fine,” someone who may be smiling, showing up, going back to work or school, trying to function normally again.

But underneath the surface are often things people cannot see:memory problems, dizziness, headaches, fatigue, anxiety, depression, irritability, physical pain, difficulty concentrating, mood changes, sensitivity to light and noise, becoming overwhelmed easily, and the grief and adjustment that comes with realizing life may not feel the same as it once did.

Depending on the severity of the injury, even simple daily tasks and interactions can become exhausting. Many people desperately want to handle situations the way they used to, but their brain and body are still healing.

One of the hardest parts is that because people “look okay,” others may unintentionally minimize what they are experiencing. Often people compare it to something they personally endured because they are trying to relate or make things better. But sometimes this can leave the person feeling even more alone, misunderstood, and frustrated.

Thankfully, I am dealing with more of a mild traumatic brain injury and am hopeful for continued healing. But this experience has given me an even deeper understanding of how tremendously brain injuries can impact a person’s life.

Before my concussion, I had already become passionate about understanding and helping people who endure brain injuries because they are far more common than many realize. I remember being at a conference with friends from Hope After Head Injury, and during one session I felt God deeply impress upon my heart that caring for someone with a brain injury is truly being Christ to someone who is suffering.

Honestly, that is how we should approach all people: with …compassion,patience,gentleness,understanding,and love.

Being careful and considerate of experiences we cannot fully see.

Today’s post is simply a reminder to encourage someone. Reach out to the person recovering from a brain injury, stroke, heart attack, grief, chronic pain, emotional distress, or financial hardship. You never fully know what someone is carrying beneath the surface.

Let’s choose to be the hands and feet of Jesus.

“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”— Galatians 6:2

Reflection:Have you ever experienced a concussion or traumatic brain injury? If so, how did it impact you and your daily functioning?

Do you know someone who has experienced a concussion or another type of brain injury? How did it affect their life emotionally, physically, mentally, or spiritually?

Are you currently struggling with another area of your life that has been distressing, discouraging, or overwhelming?

Sometimes the deepest battles people face are the ones others cannot see. May we continue to extend grace, compassion, patience, and support to one another as we walk through difficult seasons together.

Blessings, Crystal Ridlon, LPC