Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a significant public health concern in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that approximately 5.3 million Americans live with a long-term disability resulting from a TBI .
In 2020, there were approximately 214,110 TBI-related hospitalizations, and in 2021, there were 69,473 TBI-related deaths, averaging about 190 deaths per day .
CDC
TBIs are commonly classified into three categories based on severity: mild, moderate, and severe.
The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) is a widely used tool to assess the level of consciousness in individuals with TBI, with scores ranging from 3 (deep unconsciousness) to 15 (fully awake). A GCS score of 13–15 indicates a mild TBI, 9–12 a moderate TBI, and 8 or below a severe TBI .
One specific type of severe TBI is Diffuse Axonal Injury (DAI), which involves widespread damage to the brain's white matter. DAIs are graded on a scale from I to III, with Grade III being the most severe. These injuries are often the result of high-speed motor vehicle accidents and can lead to prolonged unconsciousness or coma .
The long-term outcomes for individuals with moderate to severe TBI can vary. According to the CDC, among those who received inpatient rehabilitation:
Furthermore, TBI can reduce life expectancy by an average of nine years, highlighting the chronic nature of this condition.
Individuals living with TBI may face a range of challenges, including:
These statistics, truly are just the tip of the iceberg that IS living with a Traumatic Brain Injury.
When we were approached by the law firm behind this article, it was immediately clear that their research was both thoughtful and comprehensive, backed by credible sources and information. We’re incredibly grateful to be able to share this article as a valuable resource. It offers important insights into the need to address trauma and the long-term effects it can have on our well-being — and we hope it encourages others to take the necessary steps toward healing.
This article provides compelling evidence that validates a truth many of us may not fully acknowledge: trauma, whether physical or emotional, has a lasting impact on our bodies and minds. While we may not always keep the effects of trauma at the forefront of our thoughts, research consistently shows that our bodies have an incredible ability to "hold on" to these experiences. If left unaddressed, unresolved trauma can take a toll on both our mental and physical health. Without the proper awareness and proactive steps to heal, we may find ourselves facing more serious health complications down the road.
When we were approached by the law firm behind this article, it quickly became clear that their research was thorough and well-supported, with numerous credible sources and references that strengthened their points. We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to share this article as an additional resource, as it provides valuable insight into the importance of addressing trauma and the far-reaching effects it can have on our overall well-being.
This article sheds light on a truth that many of us may not always recognize: trauma, whether physical or emotional, leaves a lasting imprint on both our minds and bodies. It's easy to push the effects of trauma aside, especially when we're trying to move forward, but time and time again, research shows that our bodies hold onto these experiences. If we don’t acknowledge and work through them, unresolved trauma can have a profound impact on our mental and physical health. Left unaddressed, it can lead to more serious health challenges in the future.
Trauma's lasting affects on the brain