March is National Brain Injury Awareness Month, which is a crucial time for the millions of people who have suffered a traumatic brain injury. According to the Brain Injury Association of America, there are over 5.3 million people in the United States who are living with a brain injury and 2.8 million people who are recovering from traumatic brain injuries. Yet, many people are unaware of just how individuals and their families can be affected by brain injuries. With that in mind, here are several things to keep in mind as we take a month out of the year to ensure those with brain injuries know that they're not alone.
Who Suffers from a Traumatic Brain Injury?
A traumatic brain injury can affect individuals of any age. According to the Centers for Disease Control, 41% of traumatic brain injuries are caused by falls, 19% are caused by unknown reasons, 15% by being struck or struck against, 14% by traffic accidents, and 10% by assaults. Males are more than three times more likely to suffer a traumatic brain injury and rates were highest for individuals over the age of 65.
Complications of a Traumatic Brain Injury
Memory loss
Change in Mood
Loss of motor skills
Depression
Becoming Paralyzed
Confusion
Anxiety
Dizziness
Nausea/Vomiting
Feeling Alone
Those who have suffered a traumatic brain injury may require additional help. They may also feel alone as if there is nobody out there who understands what they're going through and could endure prejudice against them because of their condition. Therefore, it is important for friends, family members and others in their circle to help them in any way they can. Brain injury suffers may require specialized equipment like catheters to function. They may need frequent trips to the doctor, 24/7 care or just a little more patience. Brain Injury Awareness Month was created to help individuals understand that they are not alone and there is help.
Who Suffers from a Traumatic Brain Injury?
A traumatic brain injury can affect individuals of any age. According to the Centers for Disease Control, 41% of traumatic brain injuries are caused by falls, 19% are caused by unknown reasons, 15% by being struck or struck against, 14% by traffic accidents, and 10% by assaults. Males are more than three times more likely to suffer a traumatic brain injury and rates were highest for individuals over the age of 65.
Complications of a Traumatic Brain Injury
Memory loss
Change in Mood
Loss of motor skills
Depression
Becoming Paralyzed
Confusion
Anxiety
Dizziness
Nausea/Vomiting
Feeling Alone
Those who have suffered a traumatic brain injury may require additional help. They may also feel alone as if there is nobody out there who understands what they're going through and could endure prejudice against them because of their condition. Therefore, it is important for friends, family members and others in their circle to help them in any way they can. Brain injury suffers may require specialized equipment like catheters to function. They may need frequent trips to the doctor, 24/7 care or just a little more patience. Brain Injury Awareness Month was created to help individuals understand that they are not alone and there is help.