Brigitta Beck Aspiring Neuropsychologist
Share But Don't Compare
June 6, 2015
Those with brain trauma of any measure seem quick to compare the severity of their injury with others. This became the fuel for a heated discussion in a group therapy session with people rehabilitating from their TBI’s. Each person was saying their injury was worse because, such and such and so on. Considering that there are so many variables in the way the brain can be damaged and repaired, plus the variables in the healing environment and the healing objectives – it is never a fair comparison to judge one brain injury against another. Each is unique. Each has its own challenges and recovery path.
Astutely, a young lady in the group
quieted the discussion by saying
“Let’s share, but don’t compare.”
Yes, sharing the experience of dealing
with a TBI can be very therapeutic,
especially among others recovering
from a brain injury. By eliminating
‘comparing,’ the tone becomes much
more compassionate, uplifting and
helpful. And ‘comparing’ accomplishes
nothing because it doesn’t matter anyway.
These wise words “share but don’t compare” can also serve student athletes that are overcoming concussions. Far too often, concussed athletes tend to justify their condition or they experience bully behavior as a result of comparing concussions. Each athlete doesn’t know the variables of other athletes as they heal. What’s important is that each athlete diligently follows THEIR treatments for recovery.
The best outcome would be for athletes to share their experiences – offering support with encouraging words – so they can all heal quicker and return to their sports. And without the ‘compare’.
Brigitta Beck © 2018
