Awareness & Understanding
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
When an injury changes more than what others can see.
A traumatic brain injury happens when a bump, blow, jolt or penetrating injury disrupts how the brain normally works. It ranges from a concussion (often called mild TBI) to more severe injuries.
Learn
What a TBI is
The brain can be injured by a fall, a car accident, a sports collision, an assault or a blast — even without hitting your head, if the head is jolted hard enough.
"Mild" describes the initial injury, not how much it can affect daily life. Many people recover within weeks; for others, effects last longer.
Changes people often describe
- Headaches, dizziness or balance problems
- Trouble remembering, concentrating or finding words
- Feeling foggy, slowed down or easily tired
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Sleep changes — sleeping much more or much less
- Irritability, anxiety, low mood or feeling emotionally different
Recovery
Recovery is different for everyone. Rest in the first days, then a gradual return to activity guided by a healthcare professional, is commonly recommended. Symptoms can appear hours or days after the injury.
“I look fine, but I don't feel like myself.”
Brain injuries are often invisible. Friends may say you seem fine while you are struggling to follow a conversation, remember an appointment or tolerate a busy room.
What you are feeling is real, even when no one can see it. Writing down what has changed — and when — can help you explain it to the people treating and supporting you.
Recognize
- Noticing you're not quite the same since a fall, accident or blow to the head
- Loved ones mentioning changes in memory, mood or patience
- Everyday tasks taking more effort than they used to
These are things people commonly describe — not a checklist for diagnosis.
Find support
- Seek emergency care right away for a worsening headache, repeated vomiting, seizures, slurred speech, weakness or numbness, unusual confusion, one pupil larger than the other, or trouble waking up.
- See a doctor after any head injury, especially if symptoms linger or you take blood thinners.
- A primary care doctor, neurologist or concussion clinic
- Brain Injury Association of America: 1-800-444-6443 (biausa.org)
- Veterans: VA Polytrauma/TBI programs
Journal
What has changed for me since my injury, and when do I notice it most?
Your journal is private to you.
Write about itShare awareness
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Educational and supportive only — not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please talk with a qualified healthcare professional about your own situation.