It’s common for behaviour to change in some way after a stroke. One of these ways may be behaving inappropriately.

What is inappropriate behaviour?

People usually think behaviour is inappropriate when it ‘breaks the rules’ and makes other people feel uncomfortable.

You may behave in ways you didn’t before your stroke. This may include:

• If you lose the ability to read social situations, you will not know what’s expected of you. You may not realise you’re behaving inappropriately. You may stand too close to others, interrupt them, or not respond to their body language.
• You may not be able to think through decisions properly. You may make tactless or rude remarks, act impulsively or spend money unwisely.
• You may lose your ability to control certain behaviours. For example, you may be more impulsive, swear or seem more self-centred. It can also affect your sexual behaviour. You may crave more physical intimacy or make inappropriate comments to other people.

These changes in behaviour can feel embarrassing or distressing, but are a recognised effect of brain injury and help is available.

What can I do if I’m behaving inappropriately?

Do not ignore it

Your behaviour may seem normal to you, even if it seems inappropriate to everyone else. So it’s important to listen to the people around you. It may not mean the way you’re behaving is wrong. But it may mean you need to try to manage it a little better. Ask family and friends for any support you may need, such as giving you a signal to step back and think for a moment.

Try talking therapy

Talking therapies involve talking to a trained professional about your thoughts, feelings and behaviour. You might have therapy in person, online, or over the phone. A therapist could also work with your family, to help them adjust to your changed behaviour and help you all find a way to be comfortable with it.

To find talking therapies in your area, visit the NHS’ mental health webpage or contact your GP surgery.