Back in 2015, National Geographic posted an article entitled, The Invisible War on the Brain. The article stated that the U.S. Department of Defense had identified 230,000 veterans with a traumatic brain injury (TBI) between the years of 2001 to 2014. The symptoms associated with the injury also resembled post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). During the time that the article was published, an old hypothesis that had been discredited was being thrown in once more. The hypothesis argued that exposure to blast events contributed to the injury of the brain and that it might also increase susceptibility to certain psychological disorders. This theory was raised once more after soldiers had recently returned from Afghanistan and Iraq where blast force was the primary source of injury. This had not been commonly seen before. Now, in 2019, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs states on their website that many of the symptoms associated with a TBI also overlap with common reactions after a trauma. This makes sense since a TBI is caused by trauma, thereby validating the hypothesis. Additionally, the VA states that many people who get a TBI also develop PTSD.
Some of these common symptoms can have a physical, cognitive and emotional component. Various physical ailments can include headaches, dizziness, feeling tired, difficulty sleeping, sensitivity to noise and light, and difficulty with vision. Cognitive symptoms may involve difficulty staying focused, acting without thinking, struggling with putting thoughts into words, and memory complications. Emotional symptoms can be exhibited in the form of anger outbursts, anxiety, depression and personality changes. This is why it is considered an invisible wound of war. The symptoms are not easily seen resulting in less empathy from family and friends.
Understanding what is happening is part of the recovery process. The VA is using a TBI screening tool that can be used as an initial aid in determining if you or someone you know is potentially suffering from a TBI. However, these screenings do not diagnose it. If the screen is positive, it only helps serve as an indicator for further assessment. Upon diagnosis, it is recommended that you get plenty of rest, resume responsibilities at your own pace and avoid drinking alcohol for a time. All of these recommendations are considered beneficial in helping the brain heal.
Additionally, the VA has stated that effective treatments for PTSD also work well for those who have suffered a mTBI (mild traumatic brain injury). White Rock Therapy specializes in working with PTSD. This is one of many resources that are available to you. You can contact us to get started in the process of treating your trauma symptoms. Learn more information about TBI and PTSD for veterans and access some helpful resources.