Brain Injuries Strain Marriages

Brain injuries can often result in significant strain in a couple’s relationship. As a result of the impairments which flow from the brain injury, both partners will experience a sense of loss and face numerous changes and challenges. This can lead to a breakdown in the relationship and a loss of intimacy between the partners.

The brain injured partner may suffer loss and changes in their physical abilities, cognitive abilities, behaviour and mental state. They may suffer from fatigue, decreased mobility, pain, low confidence, feeling unattractive,difficultiescommunicating, lack of insight, impulsivity, anger, frustration and depression.These symptoms can all negatively affect a couple’s relationship.
 
As a result of the above, the healthy partner will often take on the role of caregiver and might feel as though their partner has returned to a childlike state. The partnermay also take on other additional roles within the familythat were previously done by their brain injured partner. This can leave the partner feeling worn out, angry, frustrated, depressed, resentful, stressed and anxious. In addition, the partner may feel as thoughthey are in a relationship with a stranger as a result of the behavioural changes which are common with a brain injury. 
 
In these situations, it is helpful to seek out support groups, counselling and therapy. These options can help provide the healthy partner with support, education and strategies for coping with all that comes with being in a relationship with someone who has sustained a brain injury. 

By Karen Vigmond