Dating services for the disabled are also an alternative. Not many people will go out of their way to develop an intimate relationship with someone who is recovering from a brain injury. This is a major concern. People with ABI often doubt that they will ever succeed in finding someone who finds them attractive, wants to spend time with them and is interested in intimacy. Having a positive self-image and a realistic understanding of sexuality and intimacy can mean the difference between failure and success in relationships.
Sexuality is an integral part of personality and self-image.
It is important for rehabilitation specialists and family to understand this. Sexuality overrides concerns, such as developing independence, job skills, educational opportunities, and recreation and social outlets, which are the focus of rehabilitation. If people cannot express feelings of sexuality, they are likely to feel isolated and alienated. And then they may have trouble holding a job, maintaining a residence and finding healthy social and recreational outlets. They may become depressed, which will have a negative impact on recovery.