There are so many misunderstandings about concussion - and today we’re here to clear them up.

Did you know that 81% of U.S. adults don’t know concussions are traumatic brain injuries, according to a recent study by the BIAA? That might sound shocking to those of us who understand TBI, but unfortunately, it’s representative of the general public’s perception of concussions. So let’s bring awareness together for National Concussion Awareness Day!

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• The surprising truths behind common concussion myths.

• Why what you don’t see on the outside can change everything.

• Why the word “mild” can be extremely  misleading.

• Real voices sharing what they wish everyone understood.

• The hidden factors that make every recovery so different.

Our host Cristabelle Braden shares some of her experiences, common misconceptions, and important facts about concussion in a relatable way. We also have input from some of our incredible Hope Survives volunteers who have experienced concussions themselves: Didi, Emily, Frank, Hunter, Christine, Ayana, Holly, and Shaun share what they wish people understood about concussions. Just because you can’t see it, doesn’t mean it’s not there. 

Check out some of our previous concussion episodes with more education and resources - find them at hopesurvives.org/podcast :

85. CONCUSSIONS: Common Misconceptions, Symptoms, & My Experiences

81. The Road to Concussion Recovery (Dr. Brittni Charle)

73. I have a concussion… now what? (Dr. Mark Heisig)

57. Female Hormones after TBI/Concussion (Melissa Biscardi)

54. Pillars of Concussion Care + Holistic Approach (Melissa Biscardi)

20. Concussion Awareness + Safety in Sports (Protect Your Skull)

18. PINK Concussions - Female Brain Injury Awareness + Gaps in Research (Katherine Snedaker)

12. Dysautonomia - How Autonomic Nervous System is Affected by Brain Injury & Concussions (Dr. Jeremy Schmoe)

CONNECT

Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives |⁠ ⁠hopesurvives.org ⁠⁠

Reach out to us anytime: ⁠[email protected]⁠ + connect with our global online community & zoom groups:⁠ ⁠hopesurvives.org/community⁠⁠

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden |⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC’s personalized neuro-recovery programs offer hope for those suffering from Brain Injuries, Dysautonomia, Vestibular, Chronic Pain, Stroke, Movement Dysfunction, Developmental Disorders, PPPD, FND and Complex Post Concussion. Learn more:⁠ ⁠https://www.thefnc.com⁠⁠ 

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0:00 Intro

2:30 Why Concussion Awareness Matters

4:35 What’s Beneath - Invisible Injury

7:30 Mild does not mean Mild Effect on Life

10:30 Why it Doesn’t Usually Show on Brain Scans

12:15 Doesn’t Need a Direct Head Hit

13:15 Every Concussion is Different

17:00 Misdiagnosed as Mental Health

18:30 Why we Share Awareness

21:00 Common Signs & Symptoms

25:00 What We Wish People Understood - Volunteer Voices

44:00 Support and Connection

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Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org/podcast⁠