The psychosocial problems of decreased social contact, depression, and loneliness that occur for many with traumatic brain injury (TBI) create a major challenge for enhancing efforts at community reentry. Despite dramatic physical progress within the first six months after injury, these psychosocial problems remain a persistent long-term problem for the majority of individuals with severe traumatic brain injuries. Researchers have consistently suggested that the psychosocial problems associated with traumatic brain injury may actually be the major challenge facing rehabilitation. The majority of individuals who sustain traumatic brain injuries are young males between the ages of 19 and 25 who are in the early stages of establishing their independence in areas including friendships, leisure activities, intimate relationships, residence, and employment. The problems of social isolation and decreased leisure activities create a renewed dependence of the survivor on his/her family to meet these needs.
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