Traumatic Brain Injury among Service Members and Veterans

Brain injuries are a significant health concern for people who have served in the military. Since 2000, nearly 500,000 service members have experienced a traumatic brain injury (TBI), both during and outside of combat. Many veterans also live with the effects of brain injury; more than 185,000 veterans receiving care through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs have been diagnosed with at least one TBI.

Blast exposure is a leading cause of brain injury in the military

Many TBIs among service members and veterans were caused by blasts from improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and other blast-related events. Explosions create powerful pressure waves that can shake the brain inside the skull. This is called blast-related brain injury or blast-induced neurotrauma. The severity of injury depends on factors like how close a person was to the blast and the strength of the explosion. These brain injuries can have lasting effects, especially with repeated exposure.

Brain injury often happens along with physical and mental health conditions

Service members and veterans living with brain injury often experience other physical and mental health challenges at the same time. These may include:

• Physical injuries like fractures or chronic pain
• Mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
• Sleep problems, headaches, and memory difficulties

Having multiple health conditions can make it harder to recognize and treat brain injury. Symptoms may overlap, and care needs may be more complex. It is important for medical professionals to screen service members and veterans with a history of TBI or other brain injury for mental health symptoms. Mental health care should be a routine part of brain injury treatment. Support may include counseling, therapy, medication, and peer support.

Learn more about:

• Brain injury and mental health
• Changes in emotions

Getting an accurate diagnosis is an important first step to receiving the right care

Diagnosis often starts with a physical exam and a review of medical history (including exposure to blasts, car crashes, falls, violence, or other common causes of TBI). Medical professionals may use symptom checklists and physical, cognitive, and emotional assessments to help assess a person’s symptoms and develop a treatment plan. Treatment works best when it is:

• Timely: The sooner care begins, the better
• Coordinated: Medical professionals communicate and work together
• Personalized: Based on each person’s symptoms and needs

Some people may face barriers to care, such as access, stigma, or lack of awareness. Reaching out for help is an important step.

Learn more about:

• Where to find care and support
• Joining a support group

Returning to duty or civilian life can take time

After a brain injury, returning to duty or transitioning to civilian life is a process. Some service members may return to active duty, while others may need temporary or permanent changes in their role. Key considerations include:

• Symptom recovery and stability
• Physical and cognitive readiness
• Safety for the individual

Gradual return-to-duty plans, similar to return-to-work plans, can help ensure a safe and successful transition.

Caregivers play an important role in support and recovery

Due to gaps in medical and health care, family members and friends may be looked to provide care and support for service members and veterans with brain injury. Caregivers may help with:

• Managing appointments and medications
• Providing emotional support
• Assisting with daily activities

Caregiving can be rewarding, but it can also be challenging. Caregivers may need support for their own health and well-being. Access more resources for caregivers here.

Compassionate answers. Real support. Every step of the way.

Contact the National Brain Injury Information Center at 1-800-444-6443 to speak to a specialist about:

• Help with care needs
• Legal and financial resources
• Services in your community