Concussions / Traumatic Brain Injury
I will be adding a new section of resources and educational links for support for individuals their families and friends of those with mental illness. This will include support for our military/Veteran communities. Having been in the Army reserve and my father having served, it is wonderful to being able to share some of the resources that are available. These resources are not only for Vets many of them address the population at large as well as friends and family of those that have a mental condition.
1 in 5 live with a mental health condition. So, chances are you or someone you know is struggling. Learn more on how to support the or help yourself to living a full productive life. Much of the information that shall be shared is for the caregivers, families, and friends of those with mental challenges. Please help us share this blog.
First up: Concussion / Traumatic Brain Injury, TBI
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury—or TBI—caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or by a hit to the body that causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth. This sudden movement can cause the brain to bounce around or twist in the skull, creating chemical changes in the brain and sometimes stretching and damaging brain cells. This link from the CD has a video to view to see what exactly happens.
From shaking a baby, sports injuries, a fall, an accident, and of course in the military it is something that should be taken seriously. One may or may not lose consciousness, but either way a concussion / TBI can cause cognitive symptoms.
Symptoms may include headache, confusion, lack of coordination, memory loss, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, ringing in the ears, sleepiness, and excessive fatigue.
There’s no specific cure for concussion but rest and restricting activities allow the brain to recover. This means one should temporarily reduce sports, video games, TV, or too much socializing. Medications for headache pain, other anti-nausea medications can be used for symptoms. Concussions /TBI injuries can range from mild to severe with the majority being mild. About 75% of TBIs that occur each year are concussions or other forms of mild TBI. Repeated mild TBIs occurring over an extended period of time can result in cumulative neurological and cognitive deficits. Seek medical help if there has been a suspected concussion and follow your Doctors advise.
A TBI can cause a wide range of functional short- or long-term changes affecting: The list below is from the CDC.
- Thinking (i.e., memory and reasoning);
- Sensation (i.e., sight and balance);
- Language (i.e., communication, expression, and understanding); and
- Emotion (i.e., depression, anxiety, personality changes, aggression, acting out, and social inappropriateness).1
OTHER LINKS AND INFORMATION:
Below are some links to help you understand TBI and its ramifications. Several sources have their base in the military because ¼ of a million service members have been diagnosed with traumatic brain injury. Many people remain undiagnosed and those close to them do not understand TBI.
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Next is a Make The Connection is collection of video stories of those that have overcome mental challenges. Check the resource page for links to their information.
Make the Connection – has already been added to the resource page. You will find video vignettes of Veterans, family members/caregivers, and providers about the journey to and through treatment for many mental conditions.
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Brainline link is all about TBI and PTSD. PTSD is a mental disorder, but the associated stress can cause physical damage. TBI is a neurological disorder caused by trauma to the brain. Read the article:
There are many kinds of mental challenges that are invisible. Knowledge is the key to healthier happier living. Remember:
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