Originally Posted by Hockey

Hi and welcome to NT!

I so understand the desire to want to run away and start anew. I think, at its base, what motivates that impulse is the notion that we would be starting again WITHOUT THE TBI. Unfortunately, that just isn't true: the brain injury is part of who we are and no matter where we go or what we change, it will still be there.

I know that family members can be frustrating, but we need them now more than we ever did. I think the trick is not to expect them to understand everything that is happening to us. Afterall, I don't even understand everything that is happening to me. I know I'm angry about what happened to me and I struggle (not always successfully) not to lash out against the closest and most convenient targets - my innocent family.

As others have said, we have to cast a wide net to get the support we need. Joining NT is a good step. Here you will find people who truly "get it." Searching the Brain Injury Association web page for a support group in your area is also a great move. A support group for the people who care for you can be an essential part of helping them understand your head injury and lowering the stress and tension in your home.

Try not to be too hard on your family. When I first got hurt I was so frustrated with how they were acting. I mean, what the heck was wrong with them? Then, in an all too rare moment of insight, I thought, "They haven't changed; I have."

I know it's hard, but try to remember that the injury can make us impulsive and reckless. Please fight against the urge to do anything rash you might later regret. When you need to vent, come here and we'll listen.

Cheers