Glossary

processing, processing information,

Processing Speed 

Processing speed is the amount of time it requires for an individual to take in information, process it, and respond or react to the information they were given. An individual’s processing speed affects how quickly they are able to perform everyday tasks that are automatic to them, or a novel task that requires them to […]

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Confabulation 

After experiencing a brain injury or other neuropathologies, an individual might develop a memory disorder that creates false memories called confabulation. These false memories that are being reported are purely unintentional and the individual has no recollection that these memories did not truly take place. Often, it is an unintended way to fill in the gaps

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temporal lobe, brain temporal lobe

The Temporal Lobe 

The temporal lobe is largely responsible for creating and preserving both conscious and long-term memory. It plays a role in visual and sound processing and is crucial for both object recognition and language recognition. For example, when we hear sounds, the temporal lobe will make useful information out of it, allowing us to understand a variety of

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sound, sensitivity to sound, sound sensitivity

Hyperacusis 

Hyperacusis, also known as hypersensitivity to sound, that can be caused by head injuries, ear infections, or exposures to loud noises. However, it is a common symptom of an individual who experienced brain injuries, from someone who suffered from a traumatic brain injury (TBI) to a sports-related concussion. Hyperacusis is different from other noise disorders

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TBI and Depression

Depression is a mental health disorder that negatively affects your feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. It is characterized by persistent feelings or moods of sadness and loss of interest that can interfere with daily functioning. Symptoms of depression may include:  Feeling sad, hopeless, or depressed   Loss of interest or pleasure in usual activities  Changes in appetite

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Brain Injury and Anxiety

Anxiety is an excessive and persistent feeling of worry and fear about everyday situations. There are five major types of anxiety disorders: Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Panic Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, and Social Anxiety Disorder.   Types of Anxiety Disorders  Description  Symptoms  Generalized Anxiety Disorder  Individuals with GAD usually have excessive worry and fear

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headache, headache and tbi, tbi, head hurts

Brain Injury and Headaches

A headache is a painful sensation in any part of your head that is usually throbbing or constant. It can range from sharp to dull pain and can make it difficult for people to carry out their everyday routines and activities. It is common for individuals to experience recurrent and long-lasting headaches after sustaining a

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Brain Injury and Sex

Sex drive, or libido, is an indvidual’s desire to engage in sexual activity. It allows us to express ourselves sexually and/or be intimate with our partners. After a traumatic brain injury, an individual can experience changes in sexual behavior. These may include:  Reduced libido or increased libido   Decreased arousal   Erectile problems for men  Inability to

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Hoarding and Brain Injury 

Hoarding is the excessive need to save and hold onto items. Items may be significant or the most minute items you can think of such as packets of salt or mustard. Throwing away items can be emotionally difficult for an individual and can lead to unsanitary and unsafe conditions such as an infestation of bugs

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The Amygdala

The limbic system is a part of the brain that is associated with emotions and memory. It consists of four main structures: the thalamus, the hypothalamus, the amygdala, and the hippocampus. Each of these brain parts have different functions.   The amygdala plays a major role in evaluating emotional information. It processes fear and triggers anger.

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