Military Brain Injury Information and Family Support Resources

Brain Injury Information for Service Members

Traumatic brain injury (TBI)  is called the “signature injury” of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. Over 300,000 service members are estimated to have brain injuries ranging from mild brain injury/concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries, often from IEDs and blast injuries.  Ninety percent of TBIs are in the mild range, but even they can cause problems with memory, thinking, and feeling like yourself. Many service members have repeated concussions during active duty, and the cumulative effect can cause serious problems.

Some concussions and moderate brain injuries will show up shortly after the accident or incident that caused the injury. Others take longer, and their symptoms are more difficult to evaluate because they can mimic combat stress, depression, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or even the readjustment process after deployment. You may notice changes in your ability to concentrate, do your job, or get along with people, among other symptoms. A skilled clinician can help you figure out what’s going on and start getting the treatment you need.

Family members may be the first to point out changes. Their observations should be taken seriously and reported. Your family and friends can get information to help them understand the problems and help you recover. It’s important to remember that when one person in the family has a brain injury, every member of the family is affected. Both children and adults benefits from support and education.

Family caregivers may also be interested in these family resources pages.

Here are a few key points about brain injury:

• Each person’s brain injury is unique and requires a thorough evaluation and detailed treatment plan.
• Try to be as honest as you can about your problems and symptoms. Ask for help.
• Keep your spirits up,your hopes high, and your goals within reach.
• Progress may come in small steps, but they add up to major improvements.
• Rehabilitation is often a crucial part of treatment to regain functioning and cognitive skills. Brain Injury survivors often benefit from progressive rehabilitation over a long period of time. You or your family may need to advocate for ongoing rehab, but the outcome will be worth the effort.
• Family caregivers need and deserve training and ongoing support.

The Department of Defense has responded to the increased number of service members sustaining brain injuries by setting up collaborative programs to identify and treat brain injuries. Early detection and good rehabilitation offer the best route to recovery. Here are some resources if you know or suspect that you have a brain injury.