Believing In ... Advice for Professionals by Professionals

Each person's life is their own to live and we all have a different version of happiness and quality of life. Why then, are most rehabilitation programs based upon a philosophy that focuses on physical and cognitive rehabilitation, without considering an individual's definition of what makes them happy? As rehabilitation professionals, why aren't we better prepared and more willing to ask people what they want?

We all know that people with traumatic brain injuries have fewer options for work and play. They often are alone, depressed, and more likely to turn to drugs and alcohol. We often forget that the people we work with don't want rehabilitation for the sake of rehabilitation. They want to regain meaningful relationships, go back to work and enjoy activites that make them feel good.

The first step in therapy should be helping a person develop their definition of quality of life. We should be asking these questions:

• What is important to you?
• What makes you happy?