March is a time when we can come together annually to raise awareness around brain injuries. World Brain Injury Month allows us the opportunity to understand the prevalence, impact and challenges faced by individuals affected by brain injuries worldwide.
Brain injuries are commonly caused by falls, sport-related incidents, accidents and medical conditions (National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), 2020). The effects of such injuries can range from mild concussions to severe trauma. Brain injuries, whether mild or severe, can have both short and long-term cognitive, physical, emotional, behavioural impact (Langlois, Rutland-Brown & Wald, 2006). One of the goals for Brain Injury Awareness Month is to educate individuals on their role to play in the prevention, intervention, and support of those affected by brain injuries.
Here are some key information to good brain health:
Prevention is paramount
Wear headgear or protective gear when doing any physical activities that have a higher risk of head injuries. If you or anyone around you have suffered any head injury, seek medical guidance immediately. A helpful tip to check for stroke: use the acronym ‘FAST’ to check for potential brain injury. FACE – Is there facial drooping; ARMS – Can the person raise both arms; SPEECH – Is speech slurred or confused; TIME – Call emergency services if any of these signs are observed (Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, 2022).
Building Awareness around concussion
Concussion is one of the most common causes for potential brain injury. Educate yourself and others about the signs and symptoms of head injuries. Some of the indicators would be headaches, dizziness, nausea, sensitivity to light or noise, blurred or double vision, slowed response time and changes in mood (NINDS, 2020).
Importance of recovery
Besides prompt medical attention, aftercare is important too. Ensure to rest, stay hydrated and get proper nutrition to aid the process of healing (Driver et al., 2019). Consume a well-balanced diet, limit screen time and strenuous physical activity. Gradually reintroduce exerting physical and cognitive activities after being cleared by a healthcare professional.
Monitoring mental health
Sometimes brain injuries can lead to symptoms of depression and anxiety due to changes in the brain or social factors (Kureshi, Clarke, & Feng, 2023). If there are any mental health concerns, seek support from mental health professionals. Ensure to stay socially connected with loved ones and manage stress in the recovery stage. Employ relaxing techniques such as meditation and breathing exercises if necessary.
In conclusion, let’s work towards a world where the impact of brain injuries can be minimised with prompt medical response and help individuals lead fulfilling lives. With more awareness, we can foster a community that is adept at preventing, diagnosing and treating brain injuries effectively.
To meet with a professional psychologist or counsellor, call The Other Clinic at 8809 0659 or email us hello@theotherclinic.sg.
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Stroke Signs and Symptoms. Retrieved from: https://www.cdc.gov/stroke/signs_symptoms.htm
Driver, S., Juengst, S., Reynolds, M., McShan, E., Chung, L. K., Vega, M., Bell, K., & Dubiel, R. (2019) Healthy lifestyle after traumatic brain injury: a brief narrative. Brain Injury, 33:10, 1299-1307, 10.1080/02699052.2019.1641623
Kureshi, N., Clarke, D.B. & Feng, C. Association between traumatic brain injury and mental health care utilization: evidence from the Canadian Community Health Survey. Inj. Epidemiol. 10, 16 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40621-023-00424-x
Langlois, J. A., Rutland-Brown, W., & Wald, M. M. (2006). The epidemiology and impact of traumatic brain injury: a brief overview. The Journal of head trauma rehabilitation, 21(5), 375–378. https://doi.org/10.1097/00001199-200609000-00001
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. (2020). Traumatic brain injury: Hope through research. Retrieved from: https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/Patient-Caregiver-Education/Hope-Through-Research/Traumatic-Brain-Injury-Hope-Through