The importance of the wider society in rehabilitation of TBI and mental health sequelae

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review evidence for the importance of the wider society to combat mental health, long-term effects of TBI and the stigma and discrimination within the western society in particular.

Design/methodology/approach

In favour of the neurobehavioural framework, studies included in this review are those conducted under such settings.

Findings

Literature shows evidence of significant progress made under the neurobehavioural framework particularly, and, other intense rehabilitation schemes. Community rehabilitation is important for meeting emotional needs and furthering progress in this area, along side physical difficulties.

Research limitations/implications

Access to all journal search engines was not possible in this case and thus there may be more research which may be useful in this paper. It is not based on any strict empirical evidence, however – it is based on experience and work in the field. More empirical research is needed in this area.

Practical implications

Implications of this paper are to stress the importance of social rehabilitation, the documentation of behaviour and rehabilitation outcomes including measurements of success.

Social implications

Social implications are infinite. Increasing the knowledge of TBI is necessary to allow survivors to live in the community with dignity, understanding and support. Awareness of such social disabilities may increase tolerance and patience among those least experienced in this aspect of disability. Communities may become more accepting and thus accommodate more for those living with TBI and ABI.

Originality/value

There is less research on the qualitative data within services for rehabilitation in this field. A population whereby TBI/ABI symptoms and specific mental health sequelae coexist is less common and therefore can provide unique insight into the importance of community during rehabilitation.

Citation

Wetherhill, S. (2014), "The importance of the wider society in rehabilitation of TBI and mental health sequelae", Social Care and Neurodisability, Vol. 5 No. 4, pp. 223-231. https://doi.org/10.1108/SCN-03-2014-0004