Video & Multimedia

The Many Ways Occupational Therapy Can Help After a TBI

June 17, 2013

From doing puzzles and building Lego models to finding items in the grocery store or mapping a route on the subway, Adam shares his experiences in occupational therapy and how it really helped him during his recovery from TBI.

Real Warriors: Staff Sgt. Stacy Pearsall

June 17, 2013

As a combat photographer, Staff Sgt. Stacy Pearsall received numerous physical injuries and experienced PTSD from the events she witnessed. With help from a friend, she found the help she needed.

Is It Ever Too Late to Get Treatment for PTSD?

Lt. Col. Philip Holcombe, PhD | June 14, 2013

"The best time to get treatment for PTSD is now," says Lt. Col. Philip Holcombe, PhD. Now can mean soon after the trauma or now can mean 10 years later when symptoms have a delayed onset.

What Is the Difference Between Acute and Chronic PTSD?

Lt. Col. Philip Holcombe, PhD | June 14, 2013

Lt. Col. Philip Holcombe, PhD talks about how the timeline of symptoms ain acute versus chronic PTSD and in what time frame they abate. The highest recovery happenss within the first year.

What Is the Fight or Flight Response and How Does It Relate to PTSD?

Lt. Col. Philip Holcombe, PhD | June 14, 2013

For people with PTSD, the fight or flight response can be an effective way to avoid unwanted feelings. But avoidance is not a long-term strategy for a happy life.

How Should Healthcare Providers Treat the Co-Occurrence of TBI and PTSD?

Lt. Col. Philip Holcombe, PhD | June 14, 2013

Treatments for TBI and PTSD can often overlap since symptoms can overlap. However, if drug interventions are used, it is important to make sure there is no threat of negative drug interactions.

What's the Best Advice for Civilian Healthcare Providers Treating PTSD?

Lt. Col. Philip Holcombe, PhD | June 14, 2013

Above all else, listen to what your patients with PTSD and TBI are saying. Use evidence-based practices, establish trust ... and listen.

What Is Exposure Therapy and How Does It Work for TBI and PTSD?

Lt. Col. Jeffrey Yarvis, PhD | June 14, 2013

Lt. Col Jeffrey Yarvis, PhD talks about how exposure therapy can be incredibly effective for service members with TBI and PTSD because it helps undo, or lessen, the effects of response-generated traumas.

How Do You Talk About Suicide with Patients with TBI and PTSD?

Lt. Col. Jeffrey Yarvis, PhD | June 14, 2013

"Doctors ask patients how their pain ranks on a scale of one to 10. I would like to see a similarly institutioanlized scale used when talking about suicidality," says Lt. Col Jeffrey Yarvis, PhD.

How Are Children Impacted by a Parent with TBI or PTSD?

Lt. Col. Jeffrey Yarvis, PhD | June 14, 2013

When a parent is injured or seems different because of a brain injury or post-traumatic stress, sometimes children act out — using actions instead of words to show their confusion and distress.

How Do Occupational Therapists Help Individuals Ease Back into the World After TBI and/or PTSD?

Kristen Maisano, OTD | June 14, 2013

Occupational therapist Kristen Maisano, OTD talks about meeting patients were they are right now and creating step-by-step goals that take on challenges but in a methodical and careful way to effectively retrain the brain.

What Is the First OT Appointment Like for a Person with TBI or PTSD?

Kristen Maisano, OTD | June 14, 2013

"Listening to where the person is right now is crucial," says Kristen Maisano, OTD. "From there, I will tell the person that things don't have to be hard forever, we are in this together, and I will help them get where they want to go."

What Parts of the Brain Are Impacted by PTSD?

Michael Roy, M.D., Col. (Ret.) | June 14, 2013

Michael Roy, MD, Col. (Ret.) talks about how parts of the brain are affected when injured ― from the frontal lobe which houses our emotions to the amygdala which oversees our fight or flight response.

Prevention Is the Best Medicine — for all Medical Issues, Including PTSD

Michael Roy, M.D., Col. (Ret.) | June 14, 2013

Like treating heart disease before a heart attack, says Michael Roy, MD, Col. (Ret.), treating symptoms like anxiety and hypervigilance before they may become part of a full PTSD diagnosis makes the most sense.

Michael Roy, MD, Col. (Ret.) on the Co-Occurrence of TBI and PTSD

Michael Roy, M.D., Col. (Ret.) | June 14, 2013

Sometimes PTSD is not fully manifest until treatment for the symptoms of TBI begins.

The Benefits of Using the "Subjective Units of Discomfort" Scale to Treat PTSD

Michael Roy, M.D., Col. (Ret.) | June 14, 2013

Michael Roy, MD, Col. (Ret.) talks about helping service members and veterans learn ways to decrease their anxiety in therapy, which can later translate into strategies to use in life.

Individualized Treatment for PTSD Using Virtual Iraq Technology

Michael Roy, M.D., Col. (Ret.) | June 14, 2013

Michael Roy, MD, Col. (Ret.) talks about the efficacy of using Virtual Iraq for treating PTSD, an experiential technology with sights, sounds, and smells that can be highly individualized for the person's experience.

Imaginal Exposure Using Virtual Reality for Treating PTSD

Michael Roy, M.D., Col. (Ret.) | June 14, 2013

Michael Roy, MD, Col. (Ret.) talks about how using virtual reality to treat people with PTSD can be incredibly effective because it helps trigger recalls and stimulate the senses in ways that pure talk therapy cannot.

How Exposure Therapy Works as a Treatment for PTSD

Michael Roy, M.D., Col. (Ret.) | June 14, 2013

Exposure therapy — asking patients with PTSD to close their eyes, imagine themselves back in that traumatic situation, and retell their story — is inherently difficult for people with PTSD, but confronting fears can also be the key to the cure.

Treating PTSD with Medicines

Michael Roy, M.D., Col. (Ret.) | June 14, 2013

"Medicines seem to help about 50% of people with PTSD," says Michael Roy, MD, Col. (Ret.). "But I see them as a band-aid; they can smooth things over but they don't deal with or help solve the underlying causes."

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as Treatment for PTSD

Michael Roy, M.D., Col. (Ret.) | June 14, 2013

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy can help people with PTSD look at their behaviors and then use strategies, like relaxation techniques, to overcome the fears and anxieties related to their traumatic experiences.

The Various Ways to Diagnose PTSD

Michael Roy, M.D., Col. (Ret.) | June 14, 2013

Michael Roy, MD, Col. (Ret.) talks about the various means to diagnose PTSD from evaluations and checklists, which rely totally on a person's self-report, to functional MRI imaging and psychophysiological techniques.

An Up-Close Look at How Virtual Iraq/Afghanistan Works to Treat PTSD

Michael Roy, M.D., Col. (Ret.) | June 14, 2013

Michael Roy, MD, Col. (Ret.) explains how the Virtual Iraq/Afghanistan technology uses sights, smells, and sounds to help service members and veterans deal and overcome the very intense symptoms of PTSD.

Taking Control of Your Recovery After Brain Injury

June 10, 2013

Adam talks about how it wasn't until he fully took control of his own recovery that he started to see big changes in his life. "Take personal accountability for how you want to live your life. The choice is yours."

Does Being in a Relationship Have an Impact on an Individual's Ability to Heal?

Glenn W. Parkinson, MSW, MA | June 10, 2013

Sometimes the length and health of an intimate relationship helps people adapt to changes in their sexual health post-TBI. Sometimes having less sexual experience is a factor. What matters most in recovery is the quality of social support.

How Should Healthcare Providers Raise the Issues of Sexuality and Intimacy Post-TBI?

Glenn W. Parkinson, MSW, MA | June 10, 2013

People come with different backgrounds, cultures, and comfort levels when it comes to talking about sex and intimacy. Healthcare providers need open the doors to this conversation slowly and sensitively.

How Can Brain Injury Affect a Person's Sexuality?

Glenn W. Parkinson, MSW, MA | June 10, 2013

Sexual health issues can be common after a TBI. Depression, anxiety, the inability to relate to others, hypersexuality, and side effects from medications, among others, can impact how people sees their sexual self.

How Is Intimacy Impacted If an Person's Caregiver Is Also Their Sexual Partner?

Glenn W. Parkinson, MSW, MA | June 10, 2013

After a TBI, it's difficult to feel self-confident — to feel sexy — when you are relying on someone for manyof your daily needs. How do you negotiate being cared for with being an equal sexual partner in bed?

What Is the Role of the Partner in Helping Someone with TBI Reconnect on an Intimate and Sexual Level?

Glenn W. Parkinson, MSW, MA | June 10, 2013

The homecoming for a couple post-deployment can be heady with anticipation, but sometimes going slowly and reestablishing trust and comfort with sex and intimacy can be crucial for finding that closeness again.

Everyone Needs Help Sometimes; It's Never too Early to Ask for Help

June 3, 2013

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of TBI or PTSD, you're depressed, isolating yourself, or just feeling like something is not right in your head, reach out for help. It is never too early to get the help you need.

Don't Be Stoic; Talk to Your PT, OT, and Doctors

May 20, 2013

Adam talks about why it's important to keep an open line of communication with PTs, OTs, and other healthcare providers during TBI recovery. "You are the only one who knows exactly where you are. Tell them and they can care for you better."

What Kind of Therapies Are Effective for Treating PTSD?

Lt. Col. Philip Holcombe, PhD | May 17, 2013

Lt. Col. Philip Holcombe, PhD talks about various treatments for PTSD including imaginal and behavioral exposure treatments as well as addressing issues of guilt and hypervigilance.

What Exactly is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder?

Lt. Col. Philip Holcombe, PhD | May 17, 2013

Lt. Col. Philip Holcombe, PhD explains word for word what exactly PTSD is, how it can affect someone in the short- and long-term, and what can be done to treat it.

What Is the Most Important Thing for a Healthcare Provider to Do When Starting PTSD Treatment?

Lt. Col. Philip Holcombe, PhD | May 17, 2013

It's all about establishing trust — with the person with PTSD and his family. Lt. Col. Philip Holcombe, PhD talks about the concerns service members and veterans with PTSD have and how health providers can set a foundation for healing.

How Do We Overcome the Stigma of Seeking Help for Psychological Issues Associated with TBI and PTSD?

Lt. Col. Philip Holcombe, PhD | May 17, 2013

It is time to change the message to this: "People who seek psychological help arethe kind of people who have the courage to foster the resilience needed to tolerate the traumas that life can sometimes bring."

Why Can Two People Who Have the Same Traumatic Experience Respond and Recover Differently?

Lt. Col. Philip Holcombe, PhD | May 17, 2013

A person's reaction and recovery to a traumatic event depends on what life experiene he or she had before the event. Trauma is cumulative and every person is different, neither stronger nor weaker than the next.

How Do You Use Hypnotherapy to Help Patient with TBI and/or PTSD?

Lt. Col. Jeffrey Yarvis, PhD | May 17, 2013

Despite the pre-conceived ideas people may have about hypnotherapy, it is actually more about awareness and control than the lack thereof. Lt. Col. Jeffrey Yarvis, PhD talks about how effectively it can work for people with TBI and PTSD.

What Should Providers Consider When Developing an Individualized Treatment Plan for a Patient with TBI and/or PTSD?

Lt. Col. Jeffrey Yarvis, PhD | May 17, 2013

"Individualized" is the operaltive word when it comes to creating a treatment plan for someone with TBI and PTSD since symptoms can overlap and some may be psychological while others neurological.

How Can Civilian Providers Address Suicide?

Lt. Col. Jeffrey Yarvis, PhD | May 17, 2013

"Being professional, open, and matter-of-fact with people about death, dying, and suicidality is very important," says Lt. Col Jeffrey Yarvis, PhD.

As a Psychologist, Do You Treat TBI and PTSD Together or Separately?

Lt. Col. Jeffrey Yarvis, PhD | May 17, 2013

Symptoms of TBI and PTSD can overlap, says Lt. Col. Jeffrey Yarvis, PhD, but sometimes treating the psychological ones first makes treating the neurological ones from there more effetive.

Why Is It Important for a Patient to Have a Sense of Control?

Lt. Col. Jeffrey Yarvis, PhD | May 17, 2013

"With any kind of trauma — physical or psychological — there comes a sense of betrayal, and with that grief. Helping patients with TBI and/or PTSD regain a sense of personal control is critical," says Lt. Col Jeffrey Yarvis, PhD.

How Can Service Dogs Help Individuals with TBI and PTSD?

Kristen Maisano, OTD | May 17, 2013

Kristen Maisano, OTD talks about how service dogs can help service members and veterans in many ways — from feeling safe when sleeping to gaining confidence in places like grocery stores that may cause anxiety.

What Is the Role of the Patient in Occupational Therapy?

Kristen Maisano, OTD | May 17, 2013

"Rehabilitation for mild TBI and PTSD needs to be service member-directed," says Kristen Maisano, OTD. "We, as therapists, are only the facilitators, offering tools and strategies to help these men and women reach their goals."

How Can Civilian Providers Assess Whether a Patient Needs Occupational Therapy?

Kristen Maisano, OTD | May 17, 2013

Civilian healthcare providers working with service members and veterans may need to reach out to various specialists in the community to ensure that their patients are getting all of their TBI-related issues addressed.

How Do You Help Service Members Transition from the Military to the Civilian Lifestyle?

Kristen Maisano, OTD | May 17, 2013

Transitioning from the military, where a service member may have had to make many life-and-death decisions, to the civilian world, which in comparison may seem rife with trivial decisions, can be challenging.

How Do You Set Goals in Occupational Therapy?

Kristen Maisano, OTD | May 17, 2013

Occupational therapist Kristen Maisano talks about helping patients with TBI attain their goals depending on the problem. Sometimes there are ways to retrain the brain, othertimes the use of compensatory strategies is necessary.

Expanding Your Realm of Possibilities After a Brain Injury

May 13, 2013

It may be a cliché, but when one door shuts, often another, better one opens. Adam talks about a friend, a retired Marine, who tried something totally out of character and has now not only made a business from it but derives great pleasure from it.

Take Responsibility for Your Recovery and Get Back on Track

May 6, 2013

"I've been there ... it's hard!" Adam knows that it's difficult to feel motivated to participate in one's own recovery when the progress seems slow; it's hard to jump in the saddle to get on with your life. He offers support and strategies that work.

How to Assert Yourself After a Brain Injury

April 29, 2013

People want to help if they see you struggling, but sometimes you want to do whatever you are doing on your own, says Adam. Maybe you have balance problems and taking the stairs is slow going. Make a joke or thank people, but carry on yourself.

Benefits of Volunteering After a Brain Injury

April 22, 2013

Volunteering is a great way to reengage in the world and to be with other veterans with similar issues from TBI, says Adam. Whether going on a fishing or camping trip, volunteering offers a way to bond with others like you and have fun, too.

The Pleasures and Benefits of Art Therapy After TBI and PTSD

April 15, 2013

Adam talks about a friend who runs an art therapy program for vets with TBI and PTSD. "It's a place where you can express yourself in a safe, self-paced environment. A place to be with other vets in a quiet, relaxing setting," explains Adam.

Talking Frankly About Suicide

April 8, 2013

Suicide is invariably tricky to discuss. Adam talks about what signs and symptoms people should be aware of for themselves and for their loved ones who are depressed and also what resources are out there to help.

Team River Runner

April 8, 2013

Adaptive sports like kayaking are great therapy for the injured brain ... and injured spirit. Hear from a few veterans who found hope, friendship, and renewed confidence from being out on the water.

How Best to Interact with Someone with TBI

April 1, 2013

Should you jump in and finish a sentence for someone with TBI who is having trouble speaking or trying to form a word? Should you drop eye contact if the person is struggling? Adam talks about how to respectfully interact with someone with a TBI.

Focus -- and Rest -- Are Crucial for a Successful Job Search

March 26, 2013

Searching for a job can be frustrating — and exhausting, especially for veterans with TBI. Adam gets some good ideas from Army veteran William Marquez, Virginia Employment Commission.

The Many Ways Veterans Make Great Employees

March 18, 2013

"Veterans make great employees," Army veteran William Marquez, Virginia Employment Commission, explains to Adam. Prospective employers should focus more on the veterans' hard work, discipline, and skill level and less on any disability they may have.

Real Warriors: Maj. Jeff Hall

March 12, 2013

"I just wanted to turn off the 600 TV sets that were going on all the time in my head." Hear Maj. Jeff Hall's story that went from thoughts of suicide to finding his way back to his family and life.

Get Away from the “Go It Alone” Mentality

March 11, 2013

When searching for a civilian job, veterans should consider finding a friend or buddy in a similar situation with whom to share ideas and strategies. Adam talks with Army veteran William Marquez, Virginia Employment Commission, about this topic.

Cool It on the Acronyms! Making Your Military Skills Understandable on a Civilian Resume

March 4, 2013

Adam talks to Army veteran William Marquez, Virginia Employment Commission, about the resources available for veterans to help them find equivalent cilivian jobs for what they did on active duty.

Research into Blast Injury and the Brain

Lee Goldstein, MD, PhD | February 28, 2013

Using animal models in the lab to study the mechanisms of blast-related brain injury, researchers like Dr. Lee Goldstein are feeling optimistic that their findings will lead to viable treatments.

How to Enter the Civilian Workforce After Being in the Military

February 25, 2013

Adam talks with Army veteran William Marquez, Viriginia Employment Commission, about how to help veterans get the necessary licenses, certifications, and training they need to enter the civilian workforce.

How to Transfer Job Skills and Specializations from the Military to the Civilian World

February 19, 2013

Adam talks with Army veteran William Marquez, Viriginia Employment Commission, about how to get the job qualifications needed to transfer from a military to a civilian career.

Dealing with the Behavioral Complications of Brain Injury

Paul Aravich, PhD | February 14, 2013

Dr. Paul Aravich talks about how soldiers, veterans, and civilians can prevent and get treatment for the behavioral complications from TBI that can worsen with age.

The Importance of Focusing on a Healthy and Socially Engaged Lifestyle After TBI

Paul Aravich, PhD | February 14, 2013

For some people with TBI and their caregivers, life can feel painfully isolated. But trying to focus on one's strengths and a healthy and socially engaged lifestyle can help.

With or Without TBI, Pursue the Unexpected Opportunities

Paul Aravich, PhD | February 14, 2013

Dr. Paul Aravich suggests that veterans with TBI should not look at their loss of capacities but rather their different capacities.

Is PTSD Another Form of Brain Injury?

Paul Aravich, PhD | February 14, 2013

Dr. Paul Aravich talks about PTSD and other serious mental disorders as types of brain injuries, which can come with an increased risk for dementia later in life.

After Brain Injury: Focusing on the "Able" Not the "Dis" of "Disabled"

Jordan Grafman, PhD | February 12, 2013

Dr. Jordan Grafman talks about the many ways caregivers and society as a whole can help people with brain injury more successfully reintegrate into their families and communities.

Successful Outcome Post-TBI Depends on Treatment — and Significant Self-Motivatio

Jordan Grafman, PhD | February 12, 2013

Dr. Jordan Grafman talks about the Vietnam vets in a longevity study who were able to create stable, good lives for themselves and their families without much systemized rehab like there is today.

How TBI and PTSD Are Treated Now in Comparison to the Past

Jordan Grafman, PhD | February 12, 2013

In recent wars, there has been more programmatic effort to treat and evaluate soldiers with TBI and PTSD. But are these issues any better resolved than they were 30, 50, 100 years ago?

Learning to Trust the World After a Brain Injury

Jordan Grafman, PhD | February 12, 2013

Learning to trust the world, to trust caregivers, can be equally if not more effective than drugs for people with executive function or behavioral problems post-TBI.

What Is Cognitive Reserve and How Does It Affect Outcome After TBI?

Jordan Grafman, PhD | February 11, 2013

Dr. Jordan Grafman talks about how people who had a higher level of skills, interests, and motivation before a brain injury tend to have a better outcome than those who did not.

Frustrations and Struggles Even Years After Brain Injury

February 11, 2013

Adam's injury happened seven years ago, but he still finds he gets frustrated by some of his lingering symptoms. He suggests turning that frustration into a call to action to stay focused on your recovery.

What TBI Symptoms Most Frequently Impact Return to Work?

Jordan Grafman, PhD | February 11, 2013

In a study of Vietnam veterans with TBI, Dr. Jordan Grafman showed that problems navigating social behaviors were the most definitive factors for not being able to return to work.

Lessons Learned from 30+-Year Study of Vietnam Vets with TBI

Jordan Grafman, PhD | February 11, 2013

Thanks to the input of the caregivers of Vietnam vets enrolled in a longevity study, researchers have been better able to examine the toll of TBI on a person's social behavior.

What People with — and without — TBI Should Know as They Age

Jordan Grafman, PhD | February 11, 2013

Dr. Jordan Grafman discusses the research around aging with a TBI — from the importance of regular social interaction to the strategies for reducing tissue damage as the brain ages.

What Does Damage to the Frontal Lobes Look Like 30 Years Post-Brain Injury?

Jordan Grafman, PhD | February 11, 2013

Researchers studying Vietnam veterans with TBI are now looking more closely at how TBI can alter a person's social beliefs — from religious and political to legal and moral.

Translating Brain Science into Strategies for Living Daily Life

Jordan Grafman, PhD | February 11, 2013

Researchers are focusing on what damage to the frtonal lobes means for a person interviewing for a job, for example, or eating in a restaurant.

How Genetic Makeup Can Influence Outcome After a Brain Injury

Jordan Grafman, PhD | February 11, 2013

Dr. Jordan Grafman talks about the Vietnam Head Injury Study, started in 1981, that continues to look at the effects of brain injury on current and late-life function.

Tips for Better Communication After Brain Injury

February 4, 2013

Like other veterans with TBI, Adam finds talking on a cellphone stressful and uncomfortable. He prefers talking face-to-face with people — that way he can hear better and also see the person's body language.

Adam Wants Your Questions and Ideas

January 28, 2013

"Thanks for all the wonderful feedback and support. It's great to know we're helping some folks out there. Now it's your turn. Send in the questions, ideas, or topics you'd like me to address to info@brainline.org."

Mike Zacchea: "Fake It Til You Make It" Doesn't Work

January 25, 2013

Former Marine Mike Zacchea does not remember his wedding. Or a trip to Florida. For a long time, he didn't realize he had sustained several debilitating blast-related concussions as well as PTSD.

Brooke Brown Talks About Living with Her Husband with TBI and PTSD

January 25, 2013

"PTSD turns my husband into a monster. But my husband is a hero. He is not a monster."

Matt Brown on Becoming a New Person After TBI and PTSD

January 25, 2013

Matt Brown, who suffers from combat-related TBI and PTSD, talks about how his family helped him defeat his suicidal tendencies and his depression — and become human again.

Matt Brown: Strategies, Patterns, and Routine Are Key

January 25, 2013

Former Marine Matt Brown, who suffers from combat-related TBI and PTSD — talks about strategies and games that have helped him with his memory and daily routine.

Mike Zacchea on His Severe PTSD and TBI

January 25, 2013

Mike Zacchea finally got psychological help after setting his house on fire because he thought his wife was an insurgent.

Brooke Brown: How I Communicate with My Husband

January 25, 2013

Although she hates to have to talk to her husband — who suffers from combat-related TBI and PTSD — like a child, sometimes that's the only way she can get him to understand her.

What Saved Former Marine Matt Brown from Suicide?

January 25, 2013

Former Marine Matt Brown, who has TBI and PTSD, was dangerously suicidal and he would never "sugarcoat" that fact. It was finding his voice to help others that saved him.

The Pomodoro Technique Can Help People with TBI

January 22, 2013

A friend of Adam's told him about the Pomodoro Technique — a time management method that breaks up periods of work into 25-minute intervals. In a nutshell, frequent breaks can improve focus and mental agility.

Standard, Systemized Care for Traumatic Brain Injur

Geoffrey Ling, MD, PhD, Col. (Ret.) | January 15, 2013

Dr. Geoffrey Ling talks about the military's success in creating a standard, system of care for TBI — from immediate assessment to admittance into a concussion restoration center.

Second Impact Syndrome: Rest and Removal from Play

Geoffrey Ling, MD, PhD, Col. (Ret.) | January 15, 2013

Although other treatments for second impact syndrome are being studied, the two hallmark treatments now are rest and removal from play. They should not be underestimated.

Misconceptions About Traumatic Brain Injury

Geoffrey Ling, MD, PhD, Col. (Ret.) | January 15, 2013

Dr. Geoffrey Ling explains several important misconceptions about TBI — from thinking a concussion is different from a mild TBI to believing that sustaining a mild TBI will always come with life-long, debilitating consequences.

The Military's PREVENT Program

Geoffrey Ling, MD, PhD, Col. (Ret.) | January 15, 2013

Dr. Geoffrey Ling describes PREVENT, an initiative to define and better understand the spectrum of injury — from the more inflamation-driven injury of mild TBI to the tissue destruction of severe TBI.

The "Faces" of TBI Research

Geoffrey Ling, MD, PhD, Col. (Ret.) | January 15, 2013

As a researcher and clinician, Dr. Geoffrey Ling knows that research needs to be fast and efficient because patients are waiting now!

Concussion and PTSD: Not the Same, but Cousins

Geoffrey Ling, MD, PhD, Col. (Ret.) | January 15, 2013

Dr. Geoffrey Ling talks about the importance of an interdisciplinary team to treat TBI and PTSD because oftentimes, if one is left untreated, treatment for the other often stays stalled.

The 80% Solution of the MACE

Geoffrey Ling, MD, PhD, Col. (Ret.) | January 15, 2013

Dr. Geoffery Ling talks about the use of the Miliatary Acute Concussion Exam (MACE) — a simple, standardized tool for first providers. "It's better to have an 80 percent solution now than a 100 percent solution that you never see."

Almost a Perfect Storm: Therapy for TBI

Geoffrey Ling, MD, PhD, Col. (Ret.) | January 15, 2013

With the burgeoning understanding of the cellular and biochemical effects of brain injury, pharmacologists can successfully intercede with more promising standardized treatment.

The Stark Differences Between Military and Civilian Care for Brain Injury

Geoffrey Ling, MD, PhD, Col. (Ret.) | January 15, 2013

Dr. Geoffrey Ling talks about what it would take to duplicate the military's top-notch standard of care for TBI in the civilian sector.

DARPA: Giving Back Life and Movement with the Revolutionizing Prosthetics Program

Geoffrey Ling, MD, PhD, Col. (Ret.) | January 15, 2013

Dr. Geoffrey Ling shares his work on the Revolutionizing Prosthetics Program, especially on the mechanical arm that allows a soldier or veteran to open a door, feed himself, even pick up an M&M and place it in his mouth.

DARPA's Revolutionary Concussion-Screening Blast Gauge

Geoffrey Ling, MD, PhD, Col. (Ret.) | January 15, 2013

Dr. Geoffrey Ling talks about DARPA's tiny blast gauge, which worn now by 11,000 soldiers, can quantify who is at risk for brain injury so that they can get screened and treated more quickly.

Don't Live Life on Autopilot

January 14, 2013

Adam knows that sometimes for veterans life after combat feels like its being lived on autopilot — with little joy. Adam shares some ideas and strategies to turn that situation around.

How Traumatic Brain Injury Can Exacerbate Physical Pain and What to Do About It

January 7, 2013

Pain can negatively color one's life, especially when that person has a brain injury where energy is at a premium as it is. Adam shares his advice.

A Change in Family Roles After a Brain Injury Can Be Difficult

December 31, 2012

Just like a squad, flight, or platoon, a family needs to come together after a brain injury as a support unit. Adam talks about how the change in family roles can be hard, but patience and communication will help the family work together as a whole.

Being a Good Listener to a Service Member or Veteran with TBI

December 17, 2012

For some service members and veterans after a brain injury, speaking becomes harder whether it is with word retrieval or the amount of time it takes to formulate and deliver a response or comment. Adam shares his experience with being a sensitive and respectful listener.

Help your Loved One with TBI and/or PTSD Ease Back into Life

December 11, 2012

Sometimes service members and veterans with TBI and/or PTSD find it easier to be alone, away from people — even family and friends. But ultimately, that is not healthy. Adam shares ideas to help loved ones ease back into life events without adding stress.

Quick to Anger? Easily Frustrated? Reach Out for Help.

November 26, 2012

It's understandable that service members and veterans can get angry or frustrated when witnessing people in the civilian world getting upset about something trivial like a coffee made wrong. Adam shares some ideas.

Denial Versus Accepting Reality After Brain Injury: A Significant Difference

November 19, 2012

Accepting changes in oneself after a brain injury can be difficult. But denying the changes, over the long run, will be more painful — for the injured person and those he loves. Adam shares his experience.

Another Symptom of Traumatic Brain Injury: Guilt

November 12, 2012

Guilt never feels good. But it's important for service members and veterans with TBI to talk openly about these feelings with their family, friends, and therapists and realize that they are all working toward that person's best outcome. Adam shares his thoughts on the subject.

Preparing Kids to Face the Changes in a Loved One with Moderate or Severe TBI

October 30, 2012

When preparing children to see a loved one with a severe or moderate brain injury — one that may include significant changes physically and emotionally — it's best to be honest and upfront. Adam shares some good idease about how to help kids face the new reality of their loved one.

NFL and Military Concussions: Need Culture Change

Richard Ellenbogen, MD | October 23, 2012

But research shows that taking the time to rest after a concussion gets people back to combat and on the field faster and more safely.

Transitioning from Combat to the Civilian World: It's Easy to Overreact

October 22, 2012

Do you feel your anger start to hyper-escalate when someone steals your parking spot or cuts you in line at the grocery store? That is not uncommon for service members trying to transition back into civilian life. Adam suggests talking to someone who's been there, who understands.

The Vicious Cycle of High Emotions After a Brain Injury

October 15, 2012

For some service members and veterans like Adam, returning from a depolyment can feel like riding an emotional rollercoaster. He recommends trying to recognize these emotions, to become more self-aware as a way to break the vicious cycle of intense emotions and frustration.

There's More to Life than Sitting on the Sofa: Set Goals for Yourself

October 9, 2012

One of the pitfalls of TBI can be a lack of motivation, but setting a small daily goal like cleaning the refridgerator or walking the dog can lead to bigger goals like lunch out or playing frisbee in the park with friends. Adam shares some ideas.

Retired Navy Commander Shares Her Story of Brain Injury

October 5, 2012

Bernadette Semple was on her way to a mission when someone on her flight hit her hard on the temple. It wasn't until months later that she realized the extent of her symptoms.

Treating Recovery from TBI Like a Job

October 5, 2012

Retired Navy Commander Bernadette Semple had always been an intelligent and highly motivated person. She applied those qualities to the rehabilitation of her brain and her back.

Making Strategies Work After a Brain Injury

October 5, 2012

Among other key strategies, Retired Navy Commander Bernadette Semple learned that making a detailed schedule each day and sticking to it is crucial for success after brain injury.

The Importance of Sharing Stories and Ideas with Others Like You with TBI

October 5, 2012

It is powerful — and important for recovery — for people with TBI to hear and share their stories and coping mechanisms with each other after brain injury. Retired Navy Commander Bernadette Semple shares her experiences.

There Is Nothing Lazy About Someone with a Brain Injury

October 1, 2012

Adam shares an email from a Marine's wife about "brain fatigue." She worries that people — including her injured husband — think he is lazy or less proactive when it's simply a physiological symptom of the TBI. Adam offers kind and sage advice.

Learning to Treat People with TBI and Combat Stress

Shane McNamee, MD | September 28, 2012

Shane McNamee, MD's passion is to get people with TBI and combat stress back to work, back to the next phases of their lives.

The Focus of the VA

Shane McNamee, MD | September 28, 2012

The VA is dedicated to not only providing the care that veterans need today, but also what they will need in the future.

Helping Veterans Reclaim Their Identity One Role at a Time

Shane McNamee, MD | September 28, 2012

Dr. Shane McNamee of the Richmond VAMC talks about helping each veteran transform from a patient with complex injuries back to an individual with many roles — Marine, father, husband, son, athlete, artist ...

Kayaking or Fly Fishing Can Sometimes Help More than Pills

Shane McNamee, MD | September 28, 2012

Healthcare providers can help vets with TBI and combat stress find other ways than pharmaceuticals to help in recovery — from riding horses to kayaking with other vets.

Veterans Need Time to Process After a TBI and Combat Stress Injury

Shane McNamee, MD | September 28, 2012

The VA works creatively to help patients with TBI and combat stress — and their families — recover and rebuild a full life.

The NICoE's MRI Machine Is Their Workhorse Imaging Instrument

Gerard Riedy, MD, PhD | September 28, 2012

The MRI machine at the National Intrepid Center of Excellence generates far more information and images than do standard MRI machines.

Using PET Scans to Discover the Nuances of Brain Injury

Gerard Riedy, MD, PhD | September 28, 2012

Neuroradiologist Gerard Riedy talks about the variety of ways the PET scan can be used to image injuries to the brain.

The Importance of Sensitive Neuroimaging for People with TBI

Gerard Riedy, MD, PhD | September 28, 2012

Ironically, people with TBI and their families are relieved when neuroimaging shows a problem. Those images can give answers that can lead to more individually tailored treatment.

The Philosophy and Expertise Behind the NICoE

Gerard Riedy, MD, PhD | September 28, 2012

Many experts collaborated on the plan for the National Intrepid Center of Excellence with the goal of creating an objective measure to better characterize brain injury, and then treat it.

The MEG Shows Areas of the Brain "Talking" to Each Other

Gerard Riedy, MD, PhD | September 28, 2012

Neuroimaging the brain with a MEG can show, in real time, how damage to the brain can interrupt, slow, or stop communication from one part of the brain to other parts.

Key Neuroimaging Equipment Used to Evaluate TBI

Gerard Riedy, MD, PhD | September 28, 2012

The NICoE has $10 million worth of neuroimaging equipment for evaluating TBI and psychological health issues, most importantly, the MRI, the PET scan, and the MEG.

What Neuroimages Can Teach About Blast Injuries

Gerard Riedy, MD, PhD | September 28, 2012

Neuroimaginig the brains of service members with blast-related TBI are showing patterns of variable damage, perhaps most notably in the cerebellum.

The Full-Circle Programs and Philosophies of the VA

Shane McNamee, MD | September 27, 2012

The VA — along with the DoD — works with veterans and some active duty service members and their families to help them rebuild their lives after TBI and other polytrauma injuries.

VA Dedicated to Reaching Veterans in Rural Areas

Shane McNamee, MD | September 27, 2012

The VA is dedicated on a national level to making sure veterans in rural areas continue to get care even after they have left the main centers.

Helping Veterans with TBI and Combat Stress "Become People Again"

Shane McNamee, MD | September 27, 2012

Traumatic — and joyful — experiences change who we are. We cannot "fix" soldiers coming home with combat stress, rather we can help them move on and become new versions of themselves.

Treating Symptoms of TBI and Combat Stress Separately but Holistically

Shane McNamee, MD | September 27, 2012

Combat exposure can damage the brain physically and psychologically. Working to find the causes of these injuries will help with the nuances of treatment.

How the Brain Can Be Rewired During Combat

Shane McNamee, MD | September 27, 2012

How could going to Walmart ever feel "normal" after combat-induced stress? Dr. Shane McNamee of the VA talks about the physical and psychological effects of blast injuries.

Making Military Programs for TBI and Psych Health More Effective

Robin Weinick, PhD | September 24, 2012

The RAND Corporation is continuing its research, looking at what programs for TBI and psychological health in soldiers and veterans are working best and how to share that knowledge.

Three Key Recommendations from 2011 RAND Report

Robin Weinick, PhD | September 24, 2012

The main recommendations from RAND report on TBI and psyc health included centralizing information, addressing gaps, and studying ways in which programs can find people with early symptoms.

How the 2011 RAND Report on TBI and Psych Health Was Conducted

Robin Weinick, PhD | September 24, 2012

Researchers talked to more than 600 people in the military who might know anything about TBI and psychological health to learn more about available programs.

How to Find Services for TBI and Psychological Health

Robin Weinick, PhD | September 24, 2012

Service members, veterans, their families, and professionals can find programs to help with brain injury and psychological health at Military OneSource and the Rand Corporation.

Will Anyone Want to Date Me After a Brain Injury?

September 18, 2012

Having a brain injury can sometimes make people feel differently about themselves, perhaps less confident, which can make meeting people challenging. Adam recommends slowly pushing yourself to engage in social activities ... and gaining back some confidence.

"I'm Really Not Rude or Self-Absorbed; It's the Brain Injury"

September 10, 2012

Adam knows from his experiences as well as those of most of his friends with TBI that social situations can be difficult. Sometimes they know they can come off as "rude or self-absorbed" but that way of being, or seeming, is more a function of cognitive dysfunction.

Dealing with Intense Emotions After a Brain Injury or Traumatic Event

September 4, 2012

It's common for service members and veterans, like Adam, with a brain injury and/or post-traumatic stress to return home from combat and have intense feelings they don't know what to do with. But with help and patience, these emotions will settle down.

Keep Reaching Out for Help After a TBI

Tina Trudel, PhD | August 29, 2012

Soldiers with TBI and their families should not stop looking for help and guidance; recovery will not happen if people isolate themselves.

More Research and Attention Needed on Issues of Intimacy and Parenting Post-TBI

Tina Trudel, PhD | August 29, 2012

Althought incredibly important, issues of intimacy, sexuality, and even parenting after a brain injury are often overlooked in both research and practice.

Tina Trudel, PhD: Blast Injury Basics

Tina Trudel, PhD | August 29, 2012

Blast injuries are a complex form of injury — from the effects of pressure waves on the body's tissue to the psychological trauma that can come with physical injury.

Why Taking a Vacation After a Brain Injury Can Be Stressful

August 20, 2012

For people with combat-related TBI, being in unfamiliar places can be very stressful. Adam suggests starting slowly with a picnic or a walk and building up to longer getaways.

How to Move Beyond Recovery "Plateaus" After a Brain Injury

August 13, 2012

Adam shares his experiences of having to push through the frustrating periods during his recovery from brain injury and continue to make progress.

Getting to the Root of Fatigue Post-TBI

August 7, 2012

Overwhelming fatigue post-injury can be due to disrupted sleep patterns — and there are strategies to help.

Getting Help After a Brain Injury — Anonymously or Not

July 30, 2012

For veterans and service members with TBI, getting help anonymously is available. But Adam encourages taking the courageous step to reach out for help.

Adam Shares the Story of His Brain Injury and Recovery

July 23, 2012

Adam didn't realize the ramifications of his TBI until he returned home, away from the combat environment.

Biomarkers in Neuroimaging for TBI

Janna Harris, PhD | July 20, 2012

Biomarkers are anything that can measure acutely and then identify the prognosis or future development of a person's brain injury.

The Role of the Speech-Language Therapist

Katherine Sullivan, MS CCC-SLP, CBIS | July 20, 2012

Technology, like the use of smartphones as a memory tool, has helped advance strategies for people with TBI.

Getting Appropriate Care After a TBI Involves the Patient, Doctors, and Family

COL Beverly Scott, MD | July 20, 2012

Service members who sustained a TBI in theater need to seek professional care once they are home. Sharing their injury history, symptoms, and any diagnosis or treatment done in theater will help the stateside doctors better tailor care.

How Concussion Recovery Centers Offer Service Members Appropriate Rest Post-TBI

COL Beverly Scott, MD | July 20, 2012

Concussion Recovery Centers, located near service members' units, are quiet, comfortable environments conducive for rest and recovery after a brain injury.

Important to Emphasize the Prospect of Positive Outcomes After Brain Injury

Inbal Eshel, MA, CCC-SLP | July 19, 2012

It used to be believed that the brain could not change or significantly heal after injury. Nothing could be farther from the truth.

Give Yourself a Cushion of Time Before and After a Big Social Event

July 17, 2012

Social events can be quite draining for people with a brain injury. Adam says learning to give yourself the downtime you need — before and after the event — is helpful.

Strategies for Riding Public Transportation After a TBI

July 9, 2012

Stops, lines, colors, directions — and lots of people rushing to and from trains. Riding the subway can be anxiety making and confusing, especially after a combat-related brain injury. Adam shares some strategies.

"Cross-Training" at the Brain Fitness Center

Katherine Sullivan, MS CCC-SLP, CBIS | July 7, 2012

Service members and veterans can use Walter Reed's Brain Fitness Center's games and tools to help overall cognitive function.

Derek McGinnis: I'm Not the Only One with a Brain Injury

Derek McGinnis | July 3, 2012

Realizing you are not the only one with a brain injury gives you the abiity to get insight into the injury-related challenges, get help, make a plan, and carry on from there. Navy veteran Derek McGinnis shares his experience.

Fellow Service Members Helped Me in the Hospital After TBI

Derek McGinnis | July 3, 2012

"Being in the hospital after a TBI — tubes and machines attached everywhere — is scary and frustrating. Only the Marines were able to calm me down." Navy veteran Derek McGinnis shares his experience.

Recovering One Therapy at a Time After a Combat-Related TBI

Derek McGinnis | July 3, 2012

Focus on what you can do after injury, give it 110% effort, and the other abilities will come. Navy veteran Derek McGinnis shares his experience.

Important to Build on Pre-Injury Strengths After a Combat-Related TBI

Derek McGinnis | July 3, 2012

Vets and service members need help after injury not only to build on the strengths they once had but also to realize how to grow and change from there. Navy veteran Derek McGinnis shares his experience.

Getting Active and Social After a Brain and Other Injuries Can Help Veterans

Derek McGinnis | July 3, 2012

Team Semper Fi has given Navy veteran Derek McGinnis and many other veterans with TBI and/or lost limbs a place to face challenges and meet them with pride and a sense of belonging.

Connecting with Other Vets After Brain Injury on Facebook

Derek McGinnis | July 3, 2012

Facebook and other social media sites are effective ways for military vets like Navy veteran Derek McGinnis to connect with other vets who are experiencing the same challenges post-injury, post-deployment.

Derek McGinnis: My Wife Is Not My Caregiver

Derek McGinnis | July 3, 2012

The wife of Navy veteran Derek McGinnis, in a supportive and loving way, helped him become independent after his brain and other injuries. She acted like his wife, not his caregiver.

A Long Beginning to a Long Road -- from Combat to Recovery

Derek McGinnis | July 3, 2012

Derek McGinnis, an Iraq veteran, tells the story of his deployment, his combat injuries (brain, leg, hand, and more), and the road back to recovery.

Pivotal Moments and People Helped Me Recover After Combat-Related Injuries

Derek McGinnis | July 3, 2012

"There have been people who didn't leave me even when I told them to, who gave me chances, who listened even during my darkest times post-injury. I couldn't have made it without them." Navy veteran Derek McGinnis shares his experience.

Preparing for a Big Meeting or Presentation at Work After a TBI

July 2, 2012

An important event at work can take careful planning and energy — before and after the event. Adam shares some tips to help you "break a leg."

Speech-Language Pathologists Tell People with TBI to "Think Smart, Not Hard"

Inbal Eshel, MA, CCC-SLP | July 1, 2012

SLPs use effective strategies for their patients with TBI based on the model of "goal, plan, predict, do, and review."

Easing Back into the Work Force After a Brain Injury

June 25, 2012

Starting with an internship and assessing your skills and abilities post-TBI are two strategies to help you successfully return to the work force. Adam shares his experience.

Advice for Speech-Language Pathologists — Keep It Simple

Inbal Eshel, MA, CCC-SLP | June 16, 2012

Helping a patient with cognitive and language difficulties after a TBI does not have to involve bells and whistles.

How Speech-Language Therapists Work with People with Brain Injury

Inbal Eshel, MA, CCC-SLP | June 12, 2012

When meeting a new patient with TBI, SLPs do both an formal evaluation — standardized cognitive and language tests and an informal evaluation — an in-depth interview with the person to hear what difficulties they are facing in their day-to-day life.

Measuring Outcome for People with TBI at Walter Reed's Brain Fitness Center

Katherine Sullivan, MS CCC-SLP, CBIS | June 8, 2012

The number of service members and veterans using the Brain Fitness Center has jumped exponentially.

Why an Interdisciplinary Team of Specialists Is Crucial for Patients with Brain Injury

Inbal Eshel, MA, CCC-SLP | June 5, 2012

Speech-language pathologists focus exclusively on a patient's cognitive and language complaints after a TBI. The other members of the interdisciplinary team focus on their specialities like headache care, sleep problems, and behavioral issues.

Getting a Mental Workout Post-TBI at the Brain Fitness Center

Katherine Sullivan, MS CCC-SLP, CBIS | June 2, 2012

The Brain Fitness Center at Walter Reed National Mlitary Medical Center is a "brain gym" for service members and veterans.

Why Metacognitive Strategies Work for People with TBI

Inbal Eshel, MA, CCC-SLP | June 1, 2012

Using metacognitive strategies sounds fancy, but it's a simple concept. SLPs give patients one strategy to apply across many situations.

Helpful Tips for Making the Return to School or College Easier Post-TBI

May 29, 2012

No one wants to feel like a slacker or be perceived as one. Adam shares some excellent advice about how to get necessary accommodations with the help of the school's administration and professors.

One Less Thing to Worry About: Use Your Bank's Online Bill Payment Service

May 21, 2012

Being back from deployment, especially with a TBI, can be overwhleming and paying bills sometimes gets lost in the shuffle of treatment, recovery, school, work, and family. Adam recommends using automatic bill paying.

What We Know and Don't Know About Blast-Related TBI

Frank C. Tortella, ST, PhD | May 21, 2012

We know that blast waves alone can damage the human brain. But more research is needed to learn how exactly a blast wave alone damages the brain's cells, blood vessels, and structure as a whole.

TBI Is Biggest Combat Casualty

Frank C. Tortella, ST, PhD | May 21, 2012

The changes in weaponry during the recent conflicts compared with weaponry in previous wars have made TBI, especially mTBI, a common and complex injury among returning service members.

Along Recovery

May 16, 2012

Along Recovery is an intimate portrait of TBI, the signature wound of Afghanistan and Iraq. This film documents the TBI recovery process from the perspective of four soldiers recently evacuated from combat operations.

Minimizing the Challenges of Going to a Restaurant After a Brain Injury

May 14, 2012

Adam Anicich talks about why going to a restaurant post-TBI is often far from relaxing and what to do to make the experience better.

Changes and Constants in Speech Therapy in the Last Decade

Inbal Eshel, MA, CCC-SLP | May 8, 2012

Care for patients with TBI has always been tailored for the individual, but the strategies speech therapist use and how patients are taught to apply them have developed with time, research, and clinical practice.

Four-Finger Approach Helps You Remember to Secure Your Gear Post-Brain Injury

May 7, 2012

Adam learned to implement his "four-finger approach" — something he learned in OT at the VA — so he never forgets his wallet, keys, cellphone, and sunglasses.

Hope for Biomarkers to Diagnose Brain Injuries

Frank C. Tortella, ST, PhD | May 5, 2012

Research on the use of blood biomarkers for diagnosing brain injuries — in theater and in the civilian world — is getting closer. The hope is to be able to use it as a standard diagnostic tool.

How Neuroimaging Helps Tailor Treatments for Brain Injury

Janna Harris, PhD | May 2, 2012

Neurometabolite is a chemical within cells in the brain that reflects function or dysfunction within those cells.

Wear Your Helmet: A Picture Is Worth a Thousand Words

April 5, 2012

A simple, yet powerful message — Wear Your Helmet. Watch DVBIC's prevention video which was shown on a Super Screen in New York City's Times Square in the spring of 2012.

Adam Talks About His Frustration with New Appliances, Post-TBI

March 27, 2012

New appliances, like Adam's microwave, come with all sorts of buttons, displays, and settings. Heating up rice for the first time is not always easy.

Frank Tortella, PhD: The Many Dangers of an IED

Frank C. Tortella, ST, PhD | March 24, 2012

An IED explosion can not only cause a blast injury from the shock waves themselves, but can also cause concussion or a penetrating injury at the same time.

I Know Him, But Who Is He? Adam Shares Tips for Recognizing People After a Brain Injury

March 20, 2012

After his brain injury, Adam had to create strategies to help him associate names with faces — from gleaning identifying factors in conversation to adding photos to his electronic contacts.

Adam’s Tips for Being an Active Participant in Conversations

March 13, 2012

One-on-one conversations are easy and fun, but for someone like Adam, who has a brain injury, being in a large group can be challenging.

Survival Rates from Combat Wounds Keep Increasing

Dallas Hack, MD, COL, US Army | March 8, 2012

Despite grievous wounds, including brain injury, survival rates are at an all-time high because of improved body protection and medical care from theater to hospital.

Myriad Projects for Brain Injury Research and Care

Dallas Hack, MD, COL, US Army | March 8, 2012

COL Hack talks about the Army's thousands of Combat Casualty Care projects, including 450-500 just for brain injury research and care.

Need for Objective Diagnostic Tool for Mild TBI

Frank C. Tortella, ST, PhD | March 7, 2012

Diagosing a mild TBI often has to rely on subjective evaluations. A standard, objective screening tool like a blood biomarker would help with diagnosis and with tracking recovery.

Smartphones Are the Way to Go After a Brain Injury

March 6, 2012

After his brain injury, Adam Anicich needed help getting organized, remembering appointments and people, and finding places. His Smartphone -- with its proactive calendar and GPS function -- has as helped him remedy his "sloppiness."

Care During the Transition from the DoD to the VA

Joel Scholten, MD | February 15, 2012

Every service member transitioning from the DoD to the VA is screened for TBI. If detected, a comprehensive evaluation is performed.

Asking the Right Questions with Patients with TBI

Joel Scholten, MD | February 15, 2012

When looking at the full-picture treatment for people with TBI, clinicians need to ask leading questions about issues including alcohol and caffeine use, intimacy or sexual issues, and suicide risk.

Biggest Changes and Improvements in DoD and VA TBI Care

Joel Scholten, MD | February 15, 2012

Increased awareness of the short- and long-term issues of TBI has helped improve programs for comprehensive TBI screenings and evaluations. But many treatments are still in the research phase.

Breacher Training Study

Frank C. Tortella, ST, PhD | February 2, 2012

Special Forces are being studied during breacher training in which they experience real explosive events in hopes of answering more questions about the effects of blasts on the brain.

Dr. Wendy Law Takes a Detailed Case History of a Marine Sergeant

December 30, 2011

Questions about childhood, habits pre- and post-TBI, and how relationships can change are all part of taking a full case history.

Dr. Wendy Law Takes a Detailed Case History of a Marine Corporal

December 16, 2011

Taking a detailed case history is crucial for tailoring a recovery plan for service members or vets with TBI.

Dr. Joel Scholten on Developing Individualized TBI Treatment Plans

Joel Scholten, MD | December 14, 2011

Helping improve function and mood for patients post-TBI involves getting the whole picture of a person, his symptoms, and how they are affecting his life.

Crucial to Involve Family and Patient in Rehab Treatment Plan

Joel Scholten, MD | December 14, 2011

Providers know a treatment plan works best when the patient and family are involved with the medical team; the group can set realistic and meaningful rehab goals for quality of life.

The Research on Blood Biomarkers for Brain Injury

Dallas Hack, MD, COL, US Army | December 14, 2011

Blood biomarkers could enormously change the way TBI — from severe to mild — is diagnosed and then treated.

Traumatic Brain Injury: The Research Front

December 1, 2011

Surgical and non-surgical interventions for TBI, especially those that are more severe, hinge on accurate diagnosis. More research is needed to fine-tune how TBIs are diagnosed — in ERs and in theater.

Diagnosing and Treating TBI: Challenges in and Beyond Theater

Dallas Hack, MD, COL, US Army | December 1, 2011

Army COL Dallas Hack, MD, talks about the challenges in diagnosing and treating TBI — from the dearth of research to the lack of definitive treatments.

TBI and Substance Abuse: Military Resources

November 29, 2011

The military is offering stronger services for service members and vets who have TBI and substance abuse issues, such as the availability of regional care coordinators for Guard and Reserve.

Military Accountability for Soldiers with TBI and Substance Abuse Issues

November 29, 2011

For service members with mild TBI and substance abuse issues, their job is to get better. Their command works with them to get them better and back to their units.

From Surviving to Thriving: The VA Team Listens and Cares

Shane McNamee, MD | November 23, 2011

Above all else, the TBI doctors and therapists at the the US Department of Veterans Affairs listen. They learn what makes each injured person — and his family — tick, so they can help put them back together and return them to a full life.

From Surviving to Thriving: The Rogers Family's Story

November 22, 2011

After a severe TBI, Airman First Class David Rogers continues to work with the VA rehab staff. They set no limits for him — he even goes rock climbing.

Where Soldiers Come From

November 8, 2011

This documentary follows the journey of childhood friends who join the National Guard and end up combat veterans dealing with TBI and PTSD.

Dr. David Hovda Talks About Progress in the Field of TBI

David A. Hovda, PhD | October 28, 2011

Progress in research and treatment for brain injury may seem slow, but a closer look will show otherwise.

Brain Injury: What Doctors and Researchers Have Learned

David A. Hovda, PhD | October 28, 2011

There is always more to learn, but certain changes — from monitoring cranial pressure in the brain to having patients lie at an incline instead of flat — have increased recovery in patients post-injury.

Across the United States: Consistency of Care for Brain Injury

David A. Hovda, PhD | October 28, 2011

Today versus 20 years ago, the standards of care for TBI across the US have vastly improved. However, these standards could certainly be higher and more consistent across all medical centers.

Cell Death Versus Cell Survival

David A. Hovda, PhD | October 28, 2011

Researcher David Hovda, PhD is less interested in aptosis — or cell death — after TBI than what the cells that survive are doing to compensate for what is lost.

Are Subconcussive Events Actually Concussions?

David A. Hovda, PhD | October 28, 2011

Is a subconcussive event a concussive event that only affects one part of the brain? Learn more about what research is showing, and hopes to show in the future.

Importance of Thinking Beyond Scientific Tenets

David A. Hovda, PhD | October 28, 2011

"I try to teach my TBI research students to get rid of scientific tenets, to let the door open to other possibilities."

Pushing the Boulder of Brain Injury Research

David A. Hovda, PhD | October 28, 2011

Research in TBI can seem slow. But even small steps can make an incredible difference in the quality of life of people with TBI.

Recovery from Brain Injury Occurs for the Rest of a Person's Life

David A. Hovda, PhD | October 28, 2011

The human brain is a wonderful organ with amazing flexibility. Learn more about recovery.

Theoretical Exploration into Blast-Related Brain Injuries

David A. Hovda, PhD | October 28, 2011

The research into the hows and whys of blast injuries continues — from the impact of pressure waves to the push and pull of air blasts.

As the Nature of War Changes, Making Changes in Diagnosis and Treament for TBI

David A. Hovda, PhD | October 28, 2011

"War is now an intermingled mess of insurgencies ... making injuries different from previous wars."

Positive Impact of New TBI Procedures in the Military

David A. Hovda, PhD | October 28, 2011

Learn how new procedures and new treatment facilities are greatly benefiting service members with brain injury.

Stem Cell Research and Brain Injury

Deborah Shear, PhD | October 28, 2011

There is a paucity of research on stem cell therapy and TBI compared with Parkinson's, stroke, and Alzheimer's. Continued research might reveal more.

The Practical Applications of Stem Cell Therapy After TBI

Deborah Shear, PhD | October 28, 2011

Researchers still need to discover the underlying "why" when looking at stem cell therapy for people with severe traumatic brain injury.

The Potential Impact of Current Brain Injury Research

Deborah Shear, PhD | October 28, 2011

Brain Injury researchers are making steady steps — from studying the use of progesterone for treatment to biomarkers for diagnosis.

Stems Cells and Brain Injury: Slow and Steady Progress

Deborah Shear, PhD | October 28, 2011

Stem cell research and brain injury started to take off in the late 1990s. Learn about progress being made in the field.

Understanding the Nuances of Stem Cells

Deborah Shear, PhD | October 28, 2011

Stem cell transplantion is irreversible, so more research is needed to reveal how stem cells actually promote functional recovery in the brain.

From Surviving to Thriving: Staff Sgt. Ben Ricard USMC's Story

October 28, 2011

Watch this Marine's powerful story of recovery — with the help of his therapists at the VA and his own family.

Decade of War Takes Major Physical, Mental Toll on US Troops, Families

October 28, 2011

Millions of Americans have served in the all-volunteer military since 9/11, with many repeatedly returning to the battlefield. Gwen Ifill reports on how this past decade of war has led to increased stress on America's troops and their families, and how today's uniformed warriors are coping with previously unimagined challenges.

Cuidando a un familiar después de una lesión cerebral traumática militar: La perspectiva de una esposa

July 20, 2011

Este anuncio de servicio público nos introduce a Shannon Maxwell, la esposa de Lt. Col. Timothy Maxwell, USMC (ret), que sufrió una lesión cerebral traumática durante su servicio combate en Irak. La señora Maxwell presenta un nuevo recurso de DVBIC: La guía para cuidadores familiares.

Caring for a Loved One After a Military TBI: A Wife’s Perspective

July 19, 2011

This public service announcement features Shannon Maxwell, the wife of Lt. Col. Timothy Maxwell, USMC (ret), who sustained a TBI while fighting in Iraq. Mrs. Maxwell introduces us to a new resource from DVBIC: the Family Caregiver Guide.

Sarah Wade: A Military Wife and Caregiver's Story

May 27, 2011

"For Ted, the first year of his recovery was like being born all over again, except accelerated."

Stand Down: Veterans Village of San Diego

May 5, 2011

Learn about this powerful community-based intervention program designed to help homeless veterans "combat" life on the streets.

Making a Difference #7: Home & Community Reintegration

April 12, 2011

Many factors can affect a person's reintegration after TBI -- from family support to community awareness.

Making a Difference #10: Veterans with Traumatic Brain Injury

April 12, 2011

Learn why professionals need to treat TBIs in service members and veterans differently from those in civilians ... and how the VA can help.

Coming Home: Families, Courage, and Resilience After Brain Injury

April 1, 2011

"We are just one family among thousands who have suffered injuries in this war ..."

Healing After a Military TBI: A Doctor/Patient Perspective

March 8, 2011

For service members, vets, families, and providers, this DVBIC PSA features Commander Hancock, MD who shares his perspective as a shock trauma platoon doctor and a person with a TBI.

Recuperación después de una lesión cerebral militar: Perspectiva de un paciente médico

March 8, 2011

Dirigida los miembros del servicio militar, los veteranos, las familias y los proveedores, este anuncio de servicio público de DVBIC presenta al Commander Hancock, MD, quien comparte su punto de vista en su calidad de médico de pelotón de choque traumático y persona que sufrió una lesión cerebral.

Sgt. Josh Hopper

January 31, 2011

A real hero knows when to ask for help. Sgt. Josh Hopper, who sustained a TBI in Iraq, is one such hero.

Real Warriors and Families

January 31, 2011

When a service member deploys, everyone around them is affected. Learn more from these brave warriors and their loved ones.

What Is Post-Deployment Syndrome?

David Cifu, MD | November 12, 2010

Post-deployment syndrome can include concussion, PTSD, major depression, chronic pain, and general anxiety disorder.

Good Sleep Is Vital for Recovery

David Cifu, MD | November 12, 2010

Successful recovery from post-deployment syndrome starts with good sleep hygiene.

Post-Deployment Syndrome Versus Multiple Syndromes

David Cifu, MD | November 12, 2010

Not knowing the root of medical and psychological problems often exacerbates the issues; a clear diagnosis is important for successful recovery.

Motivation After Post-Deployment Syndrome Diagnosis

David Cifu, MD | November 12, 2010

With the help of your doctor and your family, laying out a strategy with priorities for recovery makes all the difference in recovery.

Take-Home Message: Post-Deployment Syndrome

David Cifu, MD | November 12, 2010

Start by creating good sleep patterns and addressing headaches; then it's time to tackle the other symptoms.

Where to Begin After Being Diagnosed with Post-Deployment Syndrome

David Cifu, MD | November 12, 2010

Clinicians need to define a methodical framework of recovery for people with post-deployment syndrome.

Brain Injury, PTSD, and Behavior

Harvey Jacobs, PhD | November 12, 2010

Symptoms of TBI and PTSD overlap; treating the whole person is crucial.

Pax

November 9, 2010

A service dog like Pax doesn't just impact one person's life, rather a whole network of people.

Building an Effective Military Baseline Test Platform for Brain Injury

James Kelly, MD | October 20, 2010

Military experts are working to define what baseline testing for TBI would be most effective for pre- and post-deployment comparison, as well as for use in theater.

How Are Blast-Induced Concussions Graded?

James Kelly, MD | October 20, 2010

To date, there is no distinctive rating system for blast-induced concussions.

How Does the Military Define and Identify a Concussion?

October 20, 2010

The definition is the same as in the civilian world, but different precautions are taken before a soldier is released back to combat.

Culture Change: How Brain Injuries Are Handled in the Military

James Kelly, MD | October 20, 2010

From the top medical and non-medical command down, brain injuries must be taken seriously in the military.

The Military's Preventative Steps Regarding Brain Injury

James Kelly, MD | October 20, 2010

Screening all service members who've had a risk of a concussion is a big step forward.

New Military Protocol for Three or More Concussions

James Kelly, MD | October 20, 2010

Soldiers who have sustained three concussions will receive a more detailed, mandatory evaluation before returning to combat.

PTSD and MTBI: Teasing Out the Differences for Treatment

Michael McCrea, PhD | October 20, 2010

Symptoms of PTSD and post-concussive syndrome can overlap significantly. Should they be treated the same way?

Single Versus Cumulative Concussion

Michael McCrea, PhD | October 20, 2010

For most people after a single concussion, a 7-10 day course of rest and recovery clears up most problems. Recurring TBIs are a different story.

Prison Pups

September 21, 2010

The powerful story of Pax, an amazing dog trained by an inmate to help an Iraq vet transform his life.

Blast Injuries Versus Sports Injuries

Jeffrey Barth, PhD | July 29, 2010

What are the similarities and differences between sports injuries and blast injuries?

Risky Behavior and Brain Injury

Deborah Little, PhD | May 25, 2010

Learn why after being in combat zone, drinking and driving may not seem like risky behavior.

Battlemind: Traumatic Brain Injury & PTSD

March 16, 2010

Learn more about how the military addresses mild TBI and PTSD in their soldiers.

Dr. Kelli Gary Talks about her Relationships After Traumatic Brain Injury

Kelli Williams Gary, Ph.D., MPH, OTR/L | March 16, 2010

A brain injury can significantly affect a person's ability to make good choices in relationships.

Who's Helping Our Wounded Vets?

March 16, 2010

One in five combat soldiers suffers a TBI, who should care for them? Watch clip from PBS show Now.

Far from Home, Injured Vet Is Never Alone

March 13, 2010

Watch this powerful story about two brave and loving wives who care for their husbands after they both sustained severe brain injuries in combat.

Beyond the Invisible: Living with Brain Injury

January 4, 2010

Meet several brave service members and their family members who are struggling with the effects of traumatic brain injury sustained in combat.

What's Different Now

Kelli Williams Gary, Ph.D., MPH, OTR/L | December 2, 2009

Having full awareness of her long-term issues from TBI has helped Dr. Kelli Gary adapt strategies that work and make choices that better order her life.

Completing My Education After Traumatic Brain Injury

December 2, 2009

Kelli Gary talks about the struggles she faced when going back to complete her education and some of the ways she coped with the difficulties caused by her injury.

Going Back to School After My Traumatic Brain Injury

Kelli Williams Gary, Ph.D., MPH, OTR/L | December 2, 2009

Kelli Gary talks about deciding to go back to school after her traumatic brain injury and her mom who supported her even when school didn't work out the first time.

Three Words That Motivated Me to Continue On

Kelli Williams Gary, Ph.D., MPH, OTR/L | December 2, 2009

"I never gave up. I knew it was harder. Things were more difficult. It would take more time. But I never gave up."

Personal Limitations: Dealing With My New Reality

Kelli Williams Gary, Ph.D., MPH, OTR/L | December 2, 2009

Kelli Gary talks about new personal limitations she faced after her traumatic brain injury and how she finally came to deal with and realize that life would be different.

How I Re-Built Social Supports After My TBI

Kelli Williams Gary, Ph.D., MPH, OTR/L | December 2, 2009

Kelli Gary talks about the strategies she used to rebuild her social supports after her traumatic brain injury.

Compensatory Strategies for Studying

Kelli Williams Gary, Ph.D., MPH, OTR/L | December 2, 2009

Kelli Gary talks about the compensatory strategies that she found through her own experience worked for her — like recording herself reading her text books to better prepare for class and tests.

Kelli Gary: Living With Traumatic Brain Injury

Kelli Williams Gary, Ph.D., MPH, OTR/L | December 2, 2009

Kelli Gary talks about her life living with traumatic brain injury and dealing with the everyday struggles she never anticipated.

In Their Boots,"Fractured Minds"

May 21, 2009

Four soldiers navigate the difficult path of recovery from TBI.

BrainLine Talks with Army Staff Sergeant Roy Bell

May 7, 2009

“Stay focused and patient and you'll get better.”

BrainLine Interviews Army Specialist Robert Andrzejczak

April 29, 2009

Even after losing a leg and sustaining a mild TBI, this veteran is moving with a new confidence.

Dr. Jeffrey Bazarian Talks About his Research With the Military

April 1, 2009

Find out about research on TBI in the military setting.

Sesame Street's "Coming Home: Military Families Cope with Change"

March 25, 2009

Preview of Sesame Street's episode "Coming Home: Military Families Cope with Change." Featuring guest stars Queen Latifah, John Mayer, Elmo, and Rosita.

Dr. Maria Mouratidis Talks About How to Address Thoughts of Suicide

Maria Mouratidis, PsyD | March 4, 2009

BrainLine talks with Dr. Maria Mouratidis about how to address thoughts of suicide in someone dealing with a TBI, PTSD or depression.

Dr. Maria Mouratidis Talks About Military Families and Brain Injury

Maria Mouratidis, PsyD | March 4, 2009

BrainLine talks with Dr. Maria Mouratidis about her experiences working with military families.

Dr. Maria Mouratidis Talks About Learning from Wounded Warriors

Maria Mouratidis, PsyD | March 4, 2009

BrainLine talks with Dr. Maria Mouratidis about what she has learned from working with returning Wounded Warriors.

BJ and Abby Jackson on Supporting Intimate Relationships

February 3, 2009

The story of one marriage after TBI.

Survive, Thrive, and Alive

January 26, 2009

This video, created by the Defense and Veterans Brain Injury Center, focuses on the ebb and flow of recovery from TBI and features Former Secretary of State Colin Powell as well as several medical professionals and individuals with TBI.

Unseen Wounds

January 26, 2009

NewHour host Jim Lehrer tackles the question: What happens to service members after they survive a traumatic brain injury?

Michael Paul Mason Talks About Trauma Care in Iraq

Michael Paul Mason | December 1, 2008

BrainLine got the chance to catch up with Michael Paul Mason about his trip to Iraq to visit the primary trauma care at the Air Force hospital in Balad.

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