Returning To Work After Brain Injury

Entering the work force can be a frightening experience for anyone, but for a person who has suffered a traumatic brain injury, it can be especially challenging. Many individuals returning to work after sustaining a brain injury find themselves having multiple jobs before discovering the right fit. It is often difficult for them to obtain the needed support and modifications necessary to be successful. With the proper structure, assistance, and encouragement found through vocational rehabilitation, they can function better in the work place and feel successful and confident with their abilities.

Once you have completed a vocational rehabilitation program and are ready to return to work, follow the tips below to help you succeed with your transition.

1. Get a position doing something you enjoy. As volunteering generally means working without monetary compensation, clients will be more likely to show up for work if they are motivated and doing something they enjoy doing. They will feel like they are providing a valuable contribution to the community.
2. Work at a place that is easy for you to get to. Transportation is usually a big issue after a brain injury. Often times, students will lose their drivers license due to the nature of the brain injury. It is important that the individual feels independent and not have to ask caretakers or family members for rides to and from the site.
3. Start out slow, no more than a couple hours per day or week. Along with brain injuries, we tend to see heightened impulsivity and students will sometimes take on more than they can handle and can become easily overwhelmed. Students should start out with a very minimum amount of hours and then gradually increase them as they become more proficient and learn more about the job.
4. Tour the volunteer work site and meet the supervisor before agreeing to be a volunteer.  It's important for students to be well informed about the organization before they decide they would like to work there.