WA State 2011Traumatic Brain Injury Conference

From Grief to Growtha survivor’s journey

Dr. Nancy Reeves

I. Become informed

Knowledge is powerWhat is one personal quality that helps you on your journey?

2. Understand GriefWe grieve for meanings and implications of our change such as:way of viewing self

relationships with othersfinancialchange in rolestatus changechange in dreams and expectations

2. Understand Grief continued

2 styles of grieving from Ken DokaInstrumental style - doesn’t need to talk much, does something productive and thinks about change and lossIntuitive style - helped by talking, showing emotion

3. Know the difference between healing and cure

Cure - brain injury totally gone. Life the same as it wasHealing - the focus is not completely on the brain injury

life feels worth living you are able to access support

you use inner resources you like yourself

Set realistic goalsGive and receive love and gratitude

4. Expensive Emotions

• Anger – bitterness resentment hate vengeance• Guilt – healthy to unhealthy• Longing for healing – envy/jealousy• Sadness – depression/despair

5. See healing as a job

QuickTime™ and aTIFF (LZW) decompressor

are needed to see this picture.

6. Anxiety and stress reduction

Holistic - mind, body, emotions, spiritVisualizations for relaxation and pain reductionJournaling Thought-stopping

7. Finding life meaning

Affirmations to comfort and guideDevelop symbols of the journey - healing, growth, new person