Brain Injury in Service and its Relationship to Mental Health
Author: Samantha Bureau, PhD
In September, we unite to increase awareness on concussions to educate more individuals and families on handling such incidents. A concussion is a form of traumatic brain injury caused by an impact to the head or body, resulting in rapid movement of the brain. While not usually fatal, we must take concussions seriously as they can have lasting effects. This Concussion Awareness Month, it’s important to note that concussions are not limited to sports but can happen in various settings.
Brain injuries affect a wide range of demographics, including kids, accident survivors, service members, and first responders. Incidents leading to brain injury among this group include airborne training, blast exposure, sports participation, falls, accidents, and more. Research shows that a large number of service members have experienced traumatic brain injuries since 2000, underscoring the importance of recognizing and reporting such injuries.
In the event of a concussion, be aware of signs like balance issues, amnesia, delayed responses, vomiting, and more. Symptoms may include headaches, dizziness, memory problems, sensitivity to light or noise, and sleep issues. Neglecting proper treatment post-injury can lead to prolonged complications.
Recent studies have linked brain injuries to mental health outcomes, with an increased risk of suicide and new-onset mental health disorders following a brain injury. Service members and first responders are also susceptible, highlighting the need for support and awareness. If you or a loved one struggles with the aftermath of a brain injury, reach out to the Concussion Legacy Foundation for assistance.
Dr. Samantha Bureau specializes in neurodegenerative diseases and brain injuries, with a background in educating military personnel and engaging with various organizations on brain injury research. Her work has influenced global perspectives on chronic traumatic encephalopathy and concussion causation, making a significant impact in the field.
References:
- DOD Traumatic Brain Injury Center of Excellence. Link
- Caccese JB, Smith CR, Edwards NA, et al. Silent Struggles: Traumatic Brain Injuries and Mental Health in Law Enforcement. J Head Trauma Rehabil. 2024; doi:10.1097/HTR.0000000000000986
- Fralick M, Sy E, Hassan A, Burke MJ, Mostofsky E, Karsies T. Association of Concussion With the Risk of Suicide: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. JAMA Neurol. 2019; doi:10.1001/jamaneurol.2018.3487
- Ledoux AA, Webster RJ, Clarke AE, et al. Risk of Mental Health Problems in Children and Youths Following Concussion. JAMA Netw Open. 2022; doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.1235
- Brenner LA, Forster JE, Gradus JL, et al. Associations of Military-Related Traumatic Brain Injury With New-Onset Mental Health Conditions and Suicide Risk. JAMA Netw Open. 2023; doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.26296
