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Angry outbursts are often short-lived and will calm quickly. On some occasions they may last for longer periods of time, particularly with someone who also has difficulty with perseveration. It is perfectly acceptable to validate the patient’s upset mood. However, attempting to reason with or explain the situation to someone who is already angry is unlikely to be an effective strategy.

Psychosocial Considerations
  • Identify triggers and avoid if possible, or be prepared to manage outbursts when they arise
  • Set rules for communication such that it is not acceptable to yell, threaten, or hurt others
  • Ensure patient is not a threat to himself/herself or others
  • Give the patient space and time to calm down
    • Refuse to talk to the patient until he/she is calm
  • Attempt to redirect patient to another activity or topic.
  • Encourage use of coping/relaxation strategies
    • Deep breathing
    • Muscle tension exercises
    • Meditation
  • Refer to neuropsychologist experienced with traumatic brain injury

Medical Recommendations

  • Antidepressants

 

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The University of Alabama at Birmingham Traumatic Brain Injury Model System provides this website as an auxiliary resource for the primary care of patients with spinal cord injury.The contents of this website were developed under a grant from the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR grant number 90DPTB0029). NIDILRR is a Center within the Administration for Community Living (ACL), Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The contents of this website do not necessarily represent the policy of NIDILRR, ACL, HHS, and you should not assume endorsement by the Federal Government.

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