đź“Ś Personal Note:
This article is based on my personal experience and research. It’s not medical advice. Want to add your story? Email me — contact info is at the bottom.
Anxiety After a Brain Injury: Easy Ways to Feel Better
Anxiety can happen after a traumatic brain injury (TBI). It is something many TBI survivors feel.
In a recent poll, 92% of people said they deal with anxiety after a TBI. That is a lot of people.
But there are ways to feel better. You are not alone, and healing is possible.
Why Anxiety Happens After a Brain Injury
After a brain injury, the brain is healing. But sometimes it becomes very sensitive to sounds, lights, smells, or touch.
This is called hypersensitivity. It can make normal things feel scary or too much to handle.
Also, brain injuries can lower certain vitamins and minerals. Even with good food, this can still happen.
When that happens, the brain may feel more anxious or upset.
How Stress Makes Anxiety Worse
Stress can push the brain too hard when it is already working to heal.
The brain and body may stay in “fight or flight” mode for too long.
When that happens, calm thoughts can be harder to find.
It can also make rest and sleep more difficult.
Things That Help With Anxiety
Here are some simple things that have helped me. You can try what feels right for you.
1. Create a Calm Area
A quiet, peaceful space can help the body relax.
Soft lighting, plants, and simple colors are often helpful.
Loud or messy rooms should be avoided if they feel overwhelming.
2. Magnesium May Help
Magnesium is a mineral that helps muscles and the brain relax.
It can be found in foods like spinach, seeds, and beans.
Magnesium may improve sleep and calm anxious thoughts. Ask your doctor first.
3. Try Mindfulness
Mindfulness helps you stay in the moment.
It can help slow down racing thoughts.
You can try this video:
4. Guided Meditations Are Easy to Use
A soft voice guides you to breathe slowly and relax.
This can be helpful during panic or worry.
Try this one:
5. Practice Thought Diffusion
Thought diffusion helps you notice thoughts without feeling overwhelmed.
It’s like watching clouds float by.
This skill helps reduce the power of anxious thoughts.
6. Deep Breathing Helps the Brain Calm Down
Try this: Inhale for 4 seconds. Hold it. Exhale slowly.
Do this a few times until you feel more relaxed.
7. CBD Might Help Some People
CBD is used by some people to feel more calm.
It can reduce anxiety and help with sleep.
Ask your doctor if this is safe for you.
“CBD helps me feel calm and breathe better.” – Anne Weston
“It helps me stay level and manage anxiety.” – Sarah Osuburn
8. Try Essential Oils
Smells can calm the brain and body.
Lavender, rose, and jasmine oils are often used.
Use a diffuser or place a few drops in lotion.
9. Pets Can Bring Comfort
Animals can help reduce fear and panic.
Some dogs are trained to help people with anxiety.
Pets bring comfort and make people feel loved.
10. Social Media Breaks Can Be Healthy
Too much screen time can make anxiety worse.
Try deleting apps or taking a short break.
Posting ahead of time and logging off can help.
11. Avoid Anxiety Triggers
Some things can make anxiety worse:
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Crowded places
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Loud sounds
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Bright lights
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Arguing
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Caffeine
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Strong smells
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Lack of sleep
Calm people and quiet spaces are better during recovery.
12. Say Kind Words to Yourself
Positive affirmations can improve your mood.
Say things like: “I am healing. I am safe.”
You can also try this video:
13. Medicine Can Help If Needed
Sometimes medicine is used for anxiety.
I take Celexa every day. I used to take Ativan only when needed. However, I found some herbal remedies that work well for me now.
These were given to me by a doctor. Ask yours for advice.
14. Rest and Sleep Are Important
When anxiety feels heavy, it’s okay to lie down.
Sleep and naps help your brain heal and reset.
15. Soothing Sounds Can Be Relaxing
Sounds can help the brain calm down.
These are my favorites:
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Binaural beats:
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Ocean and rain sounds:
Healing Is Possible
Anxiety after a brain injury is very real. But there is hope.
You are not broken. You are healing.
Every small step matters. Be kind to yourself along the way.
You are not alone.
Let’s Build This Together 💪
If you’ve lived with anxiety and want to share your story, your voice matters. My goal is to create a resource-rich community for survivors, caregivers, and students.
đź“© Want to contribute?
Email me — my contact info is at the bottom of this page.
Nolan@CoachNolan.comÂ