Comments about ‘Coping with brain injury is daily struggle’

I am in Minnesota.

My son is 23 and was in a car accident with a similar injury. Hit in head behind and above the left ear.
He can not speak, he is learning to walk and is very frustrated. He just tore his room apart and destroyer the blinds in our kitchen. He digs his fingernails into me like a toddler and then laughs while he puts on his music. I am at wits end with how long I should continue with taking care of him.
He came home in March 08 and since has become stronger and is eating and walking with minimal help. He is depressed and is medicated, but it is tearing apart everything in our family.

When do we know when to get him out of the house to a better situation and is there a better situation?
Jerry

Jerry, I am sorry that your family is having such a difficult time. You can contact the nearest Brain Injury Association, or contact the BIAU at 1-801-484-2240. They can provide you with additional information. You should also apply for his disability benefits and contact your county/state for benefits. There may be some respite care, or a place to drop off for a break. I think it's really important to follow up with a good rehab dr who has brain injury experience. Also, continuing in therapies (speech, occupational and physical) has really helped my son.
As far as knowing about a better situation, I'm sorry, but I do not. However, he is still early in his injury. In my experience, the first year post injury is when you will see great strides. Healing also usually occurs in cycles and will continue, indefinitely (sometimes slower than others, or even regression). Also, he needs socialization- so he can watch appropriate behavior (in and out)of the home. Family support can help more than any other intervention i've known, not only for him, but family as well. I hope this helps. If I can help further, please let me know. Julie McCauley