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For more than thirty years, the Brain Injury Association of America (BIAA) has led the campaign for Brain Injury Awareness Month. An estimated 3.2 to 5.3 million Americans live with the long-term effects of traumatic brain injuries (TBI), and the actual number may be even higher as many people never seek treatment. According to BIAA, every nine seconds someone in the United States sustains a brain injury. More than 381,000 Texans live with a disability due to a TBI. Thankfully, there are many treatment options available to help people recover from brain injuries.
Governor Greg Abbott issued a proclamation recognizing Brain Injury Awareness Month, noting that "[t]raumatic brain injuries can affect all Texans regardless of age, race, gender or ethnicity." These injuries "are caused by blows to the head or penetrating injuries that disrupt the normal function of the brain either temporarily or permanently." Continuing to raise awareness is key, as it helps de-stigmatize brain injury, empower survivors and caregivers, and promote the wide variety of treatment and support available to the community. Neuro-rehabilitation—such as the world-renowned treatment program at TIRR Memorial Hermann in Houston—and other therapies help people recover from brain injuries and go on to lead successful lives in their communities.
The Governor encourages "all Texans to learn more about brain injuries and extend their support, compassion and prayers to Texans impacted by brain injuries." There are multiple ways to get involved in raising awareness, both this month and throughout the year. The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) is looking for more members for the Texas Brain Injury Advisory Council (TX BIAC). You can also get involved with BIAA's #ChangeYourMind campaign by sharing your story on social media. Ultimately, raising awareness will help improve—and save—lives.
In recognition of Brain Injury Awareness Month in March, the Texas Brain Injury Programs at the Health and Human Services Commission will offer a FREE virtual 2021 Texas Brain Injury Conference and Webinar Series. The theme is "Bridging Silos: Connecting Systems of Care with a Person-Centered Approach." The month-long webinar series will culminate in a conference held on March 25 and 26.
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