Helicopter Parenting Can Help Children Recover From Concussions

Concussions are a prevalent injury among children in the United States, affecting over a million each year. Unfortunately, 50% of these concussions go unnoticed, unreported, and untreated. As a concussion clinic director in New York, I often encounter parents who are eager to assist their children in recovering from such injuries.

These parents, sometimes dubbed "helicopter parents," play a crucial role in facilitating the healing process. Although helicopter parenting is typically viewed as overly controlling, it can serve as a valuable temporary framework for recovery.

The treatment for a concussion involves significant lifestyle modifications, including reducing screen time, adjusting circadian rhythms, minimizing intellectual stimulation, and implementing a strict dietary and sleep schedule. The brain requires time to heal, and these changes help alleviate strain during the recovery period. My observations show that children with highly involved parents are more likely to recover swiftly and without complications.

Parents of young children or young adults recovering from a concussion must actively participate in the recovery plan and model positive coping strategies. This involvement is also beneficial for young adults in their 20s who have adjusted to an independent lifestyle. Parents should remain engaged from the initial stages of recovery and fully commit to executing all aspects of the treatment plan.

In one case, a young woman who suffered a traumatic brain injury in a boating accident was reluctant to seek help from her father, believing she could manage her recovery independently. However, her father's involvement proved crucial, as she experienced confusion, difficulty with calculations, and severe headaches. After spending a few days with her father, she reluctantly reduced her marathon training schedule and allowed him to regulate her protein intake and bedtime.

Similarly, a young man who fell while skiing and experienced visual disturbances sought support from his mother. She ensured he took the correct vitamins, adjusted his medication doses, and monitored his eye and neck exercises. Regardless of their motivation, concussed individuals often struggle to follow the treatment regimen, which involves drastic lifestyle changes.

The helicopter parent's role is to actively reinforce the details of the recovery plan, guide incremental exposure to stimuli, and validate the recovery process as an active coach.

In conclusion, the "helicopter" approach, although controversial, has proven to be an effective strategy for concussion recovery. This methodical and systematic approach allows concussed individuals to gradually reintegrate into their daily lives while minimizing the risk of setbacks. By embracing the helicopter approach for a brief period, patients can experience a more successful and smooth transition back to their normal activities.