Learning new things after TBI

[Ro_76]

Good morning all. I am considering starting a 6 week course within my work, and was wondering if anyone here who's had a TBI has managed to do this? I am choosing one relating to health such as Parkinson's, alzheimer's and strokes. I thought that having been through my situation it would be something that will interest me. So am more likely to take all in. I did a course last year on a work subject which I didn't find interesting, and I really struggled. I have high anxiety and put too much pressure on myself to do well. So is this going to make things worse..... Already worrying about it and haven't even began yet ha ha.

[swedishblue]

Hi Ro, I would say for sure that you'll do well to follow the 6 week course, as it's a subject you have an interest in. I returned to higher studies after my abi and found no particular problems, although its important to prepare well. E.g., if your memory is a bit dodgy like mine, invest in a voice recorder. Also do a bit of background reading on the subject. But my guess is, you'll walk it and won't look back. It may even pique your interest for continuing further studies. Good Luck pal! x

[Danger19]

I wish you the best of luck. I’m sure you will succeed. Best advice I can give is plan ahead. You know your limitations, so be nice to yourself and just make any difficulties you may have work in your favour. Whatever you struggle with, there will be an answer of how to manage it effectively for you. Just take your time, be nice to yourself and plan ahead. Like the message from Swedishblue says if you have a problem with memory get yourself a dictaphone. I would say keep plenty of detailed notes you can refer back too. Get plenty of rest, tiredness is a nightmare for study and I’m sure you are aware of if fatigue is an issue for you. Just be aware of your limits and research into ways of helping yourself to succeed at whatever you feel may cause you difficulty. I wish you the best of luck,

Take care,

Vikki

[debs-86]

Hi, obviously everybody's injuries and issues are different, however after my TBI I started a law degree at university. This was something that was planned pre-TBI and I was determined to carry on with. I did manage to complete it, as well as a post graduate diploma, however what I will say is that it wasn't without difficulty. I am aware the type of degree I undertook is challenging in any event, however I did find it extra difficult as I had to contend with the effects of my TBI. (My neuro-psychologist described it as undertaking the degree with one arm tied behind my back essentially) I was still adjusting and finding out what works for me recovery-wise too. At the end of it, (I have just completed the post-grad diploma), I am aware that sleep and rest breaks were and are a BIG factor. If I knew I had a deadline approaching I would need to factor in rest/sleep breaks. In fact I still need to do this with general everyday life! I also made use of memory aids and now cannot go without the use of a diary and using the calendar function on my phone, so I have electronic reminders of things. Exams were fun (not!). In the end up, the university had concessions put in place because of my head injury (things like being able to use a laptop, the use of memory aids in exams etc), all of which helped to no end. So ask for help if and when you can! You just have to be very introspective and realistic when it comes to working out what you think you might be able to undertake and achieve. You should, however give yourself credit as you may be able to do more than you think!