Did that crash change your personal relationships?

Getting into a crash is often a life-altering experience with repercussions that will stretch for years to come. It can impact finances, health, wellness and even your interpersonal relationships.

Though this particular aspect of life after a crash often goes without as much detailed discussion, it is something you should come to understand. After all, relationships form the basis of your ties, and it is crucial to overall social health to maintain them.

Negative personality changes

The Model Systems Knowledge Translation Center looks into how brain injuries can actually alter or change your ties with others. First, head injuries – especially traumatic brain injuries (TBI) – can alter your behavior. You may become more rash and impulsive, having a harder time controlling yourself and succumbing more often to bad ideas. You may speak without thinking and act out in unusual ways, seeming more susceptible to anger and irritation too.

Alienating your loved ones

This can alienate loved ones, especially in instances where you lash out due to an inability to cope with frustrations, anxieties and anger. They may also feel put-upon due to the fact that they will have to take on unexpected responsibilities and tasks as you recover. For example, if you once financially supported the family but can no longer work, your partner will have to pick up the slack. If you took care of household chores and managed finances, they will need to take over.

These alterations may sometimes last for just a short while, or may sometimes last much longer. It is important to gain the coping skills necessary to deal with these new changes so you can preserve and protect your relationships.