Service members and veterans are at risk of brain injury from explosions experienced during combat or training exercises. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) more than 185,000 veterans who use VA health care have been diagnosed with at least one TBI.
- US Department of Veteran Affairs VA VA.gov Home | Veterans Affairs - Provides care, benefits, and services for veterans, service members, and family members. Contact (800) 698-2411 for live agent assistance.
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs – Research on TBI – VA research related to TBI is wide-ranging and ongoing.
- Home | WDVA (wa.gov) – Information on benefits, services, and programs.
CALL 2-1-1 or (877) 211-9274 or online Wa211.org. Get support and connected to resources.
Where do you start? Traumatic Brain Injury: Let's Help You - Washington 211 (wa211.org)
Get Support | DSHS (wa.gov) for additional information
TBI Resources and Workbook | DSHS (wa.gov) - Filled with information, resources, journal prompts and more.
- Fatigue, Sleep Problems and Headaches
- Emotional Lability, Anger, and Impulsiveness
- Sensory Sensitivity and Overstimulation
- Attention and Memory
- Problem-Solving and Cognitive Flexibility
- Depression and Anxiety
- Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Grief and Loss
- Self Care and Recovery
- Mindfulness
- Journaling
- Communications
- And much more
What is a Blast Wave?
A blast injury feels like being hit by a wave and then being pulled back into the ocean — all in intensely rapid succession. More scientifically, blast injuries result from the complex pressure wave generated by an explosion. Explosions create an instantaneous rise in atmospheric pressure that is much higher than humans can withstand.
What is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)?
PTSD describes a group of symptoms that may develop after you are exposed to actual or threatened death, serious injury or sexual violence. These events can include combat exposure; domestic violence; sexual, mental, or physical abuse; a motor vehicle crash; a terrorist attack; or a natural disaster.
Is there a connection between Concussions and PTSD?
- Yes. Concussion and PTSD involve physical changes and psychological symptoms, and you can have both.
- Concussion and PTSD can be caused by the same traumatic event.
- Some people with a concussion may also have PTSD, but not everyone does.
- The symptoms of PTSD and concussion may be similar and make it hard to tell which condition you have.
- If you experience a Concussion, symptoms of PTSD after a traumatic event, see your health care provider to talk about treatment options.