20220106 : family counselor

Usually for a stroke (or any other sudden trauma/ impact), I have seen the usual course of action is medication followed by some form of physical therapy (physiotherapy, occupational therapy, slp therapy or something else). If the survivor shows any symptoms of depression - the usual recourse is more drugs. Later maybe a psychologist/ psychiatrist is involved. 

I feel most of the society is still wary of getting a psychologist/ psychiatrist help. Talking about "mental sickness" is still taboo in many parts of the society. (I am not sure why - maybe because there is an unfounded belief that mental illness - all types, is genetic and it may run in the family, so hush, hush).

Anyway, that may end up being the last resort.

We understand someone losing someone close suddenly/ unexpectedly will grieve. Long time/ short time, various coping mechanisms etc.

When somebody has a stroke (or similar), someone closer is lost. They lose a part of themselves. I think it is normal/ natural to grieve. Since coping mechanisms are not easily available/ understood - they are likely to behave differently too. Which means their close ones too lose someone close. The old personality they are used to (even though it is the same person).

The survivor and close ones probably need help and support to cope with this grieving of what is lost and move on with what remains.

I also think the therapies will have better outcomes if the mind and thinking is brought on the rails first. It is very likely to result in better efficacy of medications too (placebos wouldn't work otherwise)

But who will do this?

In olden days, probably some elders, tribal heads, village heads, religious elders, priests, spiritual leaders etc. would do it.

Every stroke/ traumatic experience is different. Every person is different and every family/ relationship is different. The approach will be different - key being knowing the people well.

I think about 2 decades ago, we lost the concept of "family doctor" - who treated the person and not the symptoms. We know what we have now - specialists for every organ but can do little for the person.

Is that what is missing in society now - some sort of a "family counselor" - who knows not only the person but close ones and relationships. Who is consulted not just when things go wrong but knows us well and can guide us all through.

I am sure it was lost long back, but is that what is needed to heal the society we have created in a hurry...