Understanding Neurobehavioural Disability (NBD) Associated with Brain Injury
What is neurobehavioural disability?
Neurobehavioural disability or NBD is a term used for a unique set of long term cognitive and psychosocial changes as a result of traumatic brain injury but can occur after any brain injury, e.g., stroke.
What are the features associated with NBD post-brain injury
- Difficulties in attention
- Inflexibility
- Reduced self-awareness
- Executive dysfunction (problem solving, planning, organising self)
- Lack of insight
- Difficulties in social judgement
- Aggression
- Reduced ability to control impulses and emotional responses
- Communication challenges
How is it assessed and managed?
NBD is typically assessed by psychologists and mental health OTs using a battery of cognitive and psychological tests that provide information on nature and severity, which then informs care and support plans.