Study reveals how stigma impacts people with TBI

People with traumatic brain injury often internalise public stigma, leading to self-doubt and social withdrawal, new research shows.

The study found that discrimination can cause some TBI patients to see themselves as less worthy, with many developing a “why try” attitude that discourages them from attempting tasks or social contact.

The investigation was led by Umesh Venkatesan, a researcher at Jefferson Moss Rehabilitation Research Institute, with collaborators examining how public stigma shapes self-perception in people living with TBI.

Researchers surveyed 84 adults with TBI about their experiences of discrimination and internalised stigma – when someone adopts negative social attitudes about their own condition.

The study revealed differing levels of stigma internalisation, with some participants more likely to think negatively about themselves when facing disability-related prejudice.

High levels of internalised stigma were shown to create a fear of failure that stopped people from trying activities or taking part socially.

This withdrawal could have major health implications, further isolating TBI patients from society and potentially worsening their condition.

Dr Venkatesan said: “Continued work on internalised stigma ultimately will allow us to develop interventions to help people cope with public stigma and cultivate more adaptive beliefs about themselves. Education and empowerment are critical.”

He suggested that support groups and peer networks may help people with TBI feel a sense of belonging and safety, reducing the impact of public stigma and stigma internalisation.

While the study did not test solutions to stigma, it highlights a significant problem affecting the daily lives of TBI patients that requires action.

The impact of a traumatic brain injury on a person varies depending on several factors, including the type, location, and severity of the injury.

Symptoms can be diverse, ranging from physical issues like headaches, dizziness, and balance difficulties to cognitive, emotional, and behavioural challenges such as memory impairment, fatigue and irritability.