Traumatic Brain Injury

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a blow to the head causing damage to the brain. Often known as “concussion” in its milder, more temporary form, the main causes are falls by those over 65 years of age, vehicular collisions, and most forms of sports and recreation. Other causes include domestic violence, Shaken Baby Syndrome, violent crime or bomb blasts. According to The Pentagon, TBI is the signature wound of the Iraq/Afghanistan wars. This often accounts for up to 60 per cent of all wounds.

Concussion

Yes. Concussion is a TBI that is temporary and usually recoverable. With time and/or treatment, a person can regain most or all their pre-injury functions. TBI usually has lasting effects while a concussion can appear to disappear within a short but variable length of time.

Acquired Brain Injury

No. Theses are examples of Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) which originates from within the body and occurs somewhat gradually. Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) occurs from sources outside the head such as a jolt, being hit on the head or a penetrating wound. “Concussion” is a more mild and temporary form of TBI.

What It's Like To Have a TBI

It varies widely from person to person but many say that it’s like having all of your files but they are in disarray. Common symptoms include: degradation in eyesight, extra sensitivity to light and loud noise, mood swings, loss of memory, chronic headaches, shortening of attention span and reduction in learning ability. Depending on the person’s particular injury; impulse control, facial expression and emotional difficulties may develop.

What Does Making Headway Do?

Family and Individual Counseling – When a family member sustains a TBI, relationships change. Counseling can be essential for all those affected.

Community Reintegration – Helping the injured to live more independently by re-learning vital skills.

Support Groups– Survivors communicate and help each other. Groups have included Pain Management, Anger Management, Substance Abuse, and other groups which vary based on the particular needs of clients.

Prevention – Presentations at schools, public events and civic organizations; collaboration with law enforcement, service groups and non-profits. Each year hundreds of helmets are fitted and given away.

Therapeutic Recreation – Reducing isolation and depression often associated with TBI through activities and socialization.

Advocacy – Advancing clients’ rights and access to benefits.

Pre-Vocational Services – Help in preparing for a paid or volunteer position. This may include working with the individual or by participating in various Making Headway pre-vocational classes and projects. – We can elaborate i.e. Pre-voc classes, gardening etc…

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