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.

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

Professor Bryan Kolb; Canada

"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

"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

"Different 'experts' involved in paediatric neuro-rehabilitation come from different organisational cultures which causes conflict and has a negative effect on the outcomes for the child."

Barbara O'Connell; Ireland

"Positive and coordinated neuro-rehab interventions for children and young people is proven to bring health improvements; improve independence; reduces the need for sheltered living; decreases vulnerability; decreases drop-out rates in schools; decreases youth offending"

Eric Hermans; Netherlands

"When someone has a brain injury, early access to local, specialist rehabilitation is crucial to ensure the maximum recovery and make significant savings to the state in health costs"

Headway; United Kingdom

"With support parents cope better so the child has a better recovery"

Andrea Palacio-Navarro; Spain

"Strength-based family intervention after pediatric ABI is essential. Parents need to be equipped with the skills to cope and advocate for the child."

Caron Gan; 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 are impressed with the progress you have made with the individual we referred to you." Social Worker

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.