Problem Solving

Physical	Communication	Cognitive	Behavioural / Emotional

The term “problem solving” is used to describe how we deal with everyday difficulties. When we problem solve we apply a set of rules to everyday problems to solve them quickly and successfully. After brain injury, problems often seem to pile up and people may feel so overwhelmed that they may give up trying to solve their problems.

Persons with a brain injury or their families may get conflicting advice from other family members, friends, and professionals making it even more difficult to decide what steps to take. Survivors and families often find that resources are limited after brain injury. Money is a problem for those who stop working. Support from friends and outside family members may also be hard to find.

Signs that someone may have difficulty with problem solving are:

Individuals with TBI may not recognize there is a problem, which is the first step in problem-solving.
They may have trouble analysing information or being flexible in the way they think.
They may have difficulty deciding the best solution, or get stuck on one solution and not consider other, better options.
They may make quick decisions without thinking about the consequences, or not use the best judgment.

Strategies for problem solving:

A speech therapist or psychologist experienced in cognitive rehabilitation can teach an organized approach for daily problem-solving.
Work through a step-by-step problem-solving strategy in writing
Define the problem
List possible solutions
List the pros and cons of each solution
Pick a solution to try
Evaluate the success of the solution
Try another solution if the first one doesn’t work.

"Brain development is complex and prolonged. Brain plasticity is influenced by a range of factors. Plasticity provides a base for neuro-rehab therapies and treatment"

Professor Bryan Kolb; Canada

"Often families don't have the financial capability to access services. We need to rethink how we deliver neuro-rehab services to children and young people"

Vicki Anderson; Australia

"We would like to see earlier identification and support for children with brain injuries to help them succeed in school."

Dalton Leong; Chief Executive of the Children's Trust

"More play increases brain plasticity and makes for better recovery post brain injury"

Professor Bryan Kolb; Canada

"Parent-supported interventions after paediatric ABI bring reductions to the cost to society"

Eric Hermans; Netherlands

"We need to harness the power of brain plasticity for treating children and young people with brain injury, especially at the key ages of 0-3 and at ages 10-16"

Professor Bryan Kolb; Canada

"Families need to be properly supported as 'resilience' is key to delivering successful outcomes for children and young people."

Roberta De Pompeii; USA

"There are problems with getting people into neuro-rehab. Those most in need are often those most excluded due to a lack of socio-economic resources."

Vicki Anderson; Australia

This is the best support plan we have ever seen that will deliver the best outcomes for this young person. The costings are 'spot on' and realistic'. Direct Payments Team.

"Rehabilitation interventions can lead to positive outcomes for children and their families if delivered in the familiar home environment and applied to everyday situations"

Cerebra; United Kingdom

OUR MISSION: To work to remove inequalities for children & young people affected by acquired brain injury; and provide effective support to their families that makes a real difference to their lives.