March is Brain Injury Awareness Month

The Department of Defense and the Military Health System recognizes March each year as Brain Injury Awareness Month to increase awareness of traumatic brain injuries, and the Department’s efforts to improve its ability to identify, care for, and treat service members and veterans who are affected by TBI.

During March, MHS shares tools and resources to educate service members, veterans, their families, retirees and the public about TBI prevention and treatment while highlighting ongoing MHS research efforts that aim to improve and prolong the quality of life for those living with TBI.

The Defense and Veterans Brain Injury Center defines a TBI as the result of a blow or jolt to the head that disrupts the normal function of the brain. Not all blows or jolts to the head result in a TBI. Most individuals who sustain a mild TBI will recover fully. However, those with a moderate to severe TBI or multiple mild TBIs experience varied and sometimes prolonged recoveries.

According to the Defense and Veterans Brain Injury Center, from 2000-2019 (3rd QTR), more than 413,000 service members have been diagnosed with TBI.

 

For those located in the National Capital Region, the National Intrepid Center of Excellence (NICoE) has several events planned throughout the month at Walter Reed Bethesda.

To attend events, please RSVP to:
dha.bethesda.wrnmmc.mbx.nicoe@mail.mil