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Over the past few years, I have received an increasing number of referrals for clients with severe TBI, who upon assessment, display a number of ‘classic’ ADHD symptoms and traits.
Of course, the dysexecutive nature of TBI mimics that of the ADHD brain and behaviour. Are the symptoms ADHD or an indication of frontal damage. Are both at play? Is there a pre morbid diagnoses of ADHD or ADD, or similar co morbidities? What says the historical assessment of school and childhood behaviour? How do we know what is causing the attention deficits and executive functioning errors.
Does it matter?
No.
Do we approach the client with the same techniques as ‘classic’ TBI deficits or ‘classic’ ADHD interventions?
No.
Why? The same reason as always, each brain is unique. Each individual is unique. Each brain injury is unique. Each ADHD brain is unique.
But. And there is a but.
There is a specialism in understanding the additional challenges that a co existing diagnoses of these two brings. An understanding of why the usual tools in the toolbox might not be up to the job in hand.
Here at BIS however, we have the exact combination needed. Almost 20 years experience in brain injury rehabilitation, including Neurodiverse clients, coupled with formal training as a certified ADHD life coach. The perfect mix.
We preempt, expect and relish the additional challenges of the even more diverse ABI ADHD brain and have a plethora of techniques to aid in rehab and recovery, for both clients and their families.