National Concussion Awareness Day is recognized on the third Friday of each September yearly and will be recognized on September 20 this year. Concussions are commonly associated with sports accidents but are also brought on by other non-sporting activities like motor vehicle collisions, falls, sports injuries, and bicycle accidents.
History of National Concussion Awareness Day
National Concussion Awareness Day is acknowledged by the Brain Injury Association of America. The day is registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office. Concussions have rapidly become a plague in the United States, with increased cases of mild traumatic brain injuries happening each year.
Traumatic brain injuries are classified as head injuries or injury to a part of the head resulting from damage to the brain by an external mechanical force or a stroke or infection. Concussion as a mild form of traumatic brain injury is a head injury that temporarily affects the functioning of the brain.
Regardless of its severity if left undiagnosed and untreated, concussions are easily overlooked and thus require an immediate and thorough evaluation by a qualified medical provider to rule out life-threatening head injuries or injuries to other parts of the system. Symptoms of a concussion last up to two weeks and can result in changes in mood and displays of unusual emotions.
The objective of National Concussion Awareness Day is to create an opportunity for healthcare practitioners, caretakers, and sufferers alike to have an open discussion of this issue. The goal is also to generate an increased circulation of information on the case to further educate the general public.
National Concussion Awareness Day timeline
The term "Concussion" comes into use with described symptoms.
Concussion gains medical understanding, setting it apart from other head injuries.
Early medical works define concussion as “commotion of the brain.”
Animal experiments elucidate no obvious damage occurs in concussions.
National Concussion Awareness Day FAQs
Is Concussion a lifelong impairment?
Absolutely not! Chess has been stereotyped as a game for geniuses due to the mental resolve needed to partake in it. But like every other sport in the world, if it piques your interest, learn it.
How do I know if someone has a concussion?
Symptoms vary from individual but concussion should be suspected if a person hits their head and shows signs of confusion, slurred speech, and difficulty recognizing people or places.
Can Concussions go undetected?
Yes, concussions usually go undiagnosed and untreated due to the varying symptoms. If you suspect you or anyone you know is having a concussion, kindly reach out to the appropriate medical practitioner.
How to Observe National Concussion Awareness Day
Learn basic concussion tips and tricks
Learn and understand the basic skills necessary for recognizing a concussion, treating it appropriately, and supporting the injured.
Share your story
You can use your social media platform to share your story and or anyone’s story to raise awareness and educate the general public.
Join a brain injury awareness campaign
The Brain Injury Association of America (BIAA) leads the nation in observing Brain Injury Awareness each year. The theme for the 2021 to 2023 campaign is More Than My Brain Injury.
5 Facts About Epidemiology You Need To Know
It affects more young children
Young children have the highest concussion rate among all age groups.
It is severe in adult males
Males suffer at about twice the rate of their female counterparts.
It is a common sport injury
It is a daily injury in American football, rugby, MMA, and boxing
It targets athletes
Female athletes have a higher risk of suffering a concussion than male athletes.
It almost caused a boxing ban
Several medical groups have called for a ban on the sport due to persistent concussions cases.
Why National Concussion Awareness Day is Important
Create and increase concussion awareness
Many people still think someone can only be concussed if they are knocked out. National Concussion Awareness Day gives us the opportunity and platform to start a conversation and increase concussion awareness
Provide support to athletes.
Athletes with concussions return to play before they should, and some are skeptical about disclosing their health issues due to fear of being benched or sidelined. On this day, we support athletes going through breaks in their careers for health-related issues.
An opportunity to raise funds
The cost of recovery for brain injuries is high. On this day, we are excited about raising funds for charitable organizations dedicated to brain injury and show support for those affected through community events and other fun engagements.
National Concussion Awareness Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | September 16 | Friday |
| 2023 | September 15 | Friday |
| 2024 | September 20 | Friday |
| 2025 | September 19 | Friday |
| 2026 | September 18 | Friday |
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