Cognitive effects—both short term and long term—go hand-in-hand with traumatic brain injury (TBI). As a general rule of thumb, the more severe the brain injury, the more permanent and debilitating damage will result. A mild traumatic injury can result in cognitive impairment that disappears over time, while more severe traumatic brain injuries can result in long-term cognitive issues.
There are a variety of therapies available designed to help alleviate brain function deficits and improve the chance of recovery. Intensive therapy designed to improve cognitive ability is given during the rehabilitation phase, and frequently on an outpatient basis as well. In the meantime, friends and family should support the patient and help alleviate frustration by helping him or her stay organized. The patient should ask for and accept help when needed.
In mild cases of traumatic brain injury the brain can make a complete recovery, and organizational skills can return to their fullest. In more severe cases, however, problems getting organized may remain a long-term effect of the injury. In most cases any cognitive impairment still present five years post injury is permanent. Through therapy, the survivor can be taught to compensate for deficits.