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MARCH IS NATIONAL BRAIN INJURY AWARENESS MONTH

According to the CDC, traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a serious public health problem in the United States. Each year, traumatic brain injuries contribute to a substantial number of deaths and cases of permanent disability. In 2014, there were approximately 2.87 million TBI-related emergency department visits, hospitalizations, and deaths in the US, including over 837,000 of these health events among children

A TBI is caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the head or a penetrating head injury that disrupts the normal function of the brain. Not all blows or jolts to the head result in a TBI. The severity of a TBI may range from “mild,” i.e., a brief change in mental status or consciousness to “severe,” i.e., an extended period of unconsciousness or amnesia after the injury.”

What are the leading causes of TBI?

  • In 2014, falls were the leading cause of TBI. Falls accounted for almost half (48%) of all TBI-related emergency department visits. Falls disproportionately affect children and older adults:
    • Almost half (49%) of TBI-related ED visits among children 0 to 17 years were caused by falls.
    • Four in five (81%) TBI-related ED visits in older adults aged 65 years and older were caused by falls
  • Being struck by or against an object was the second leading cause of TBI-related ED visits, accounting for about 17% of all TBI-related ED visits in the United States in 2014.
  • Over 1 in 4 (28%) TBI-related ED visits in children less than 17 years of age or less were caused by being struck by or against an object.
  • Falls and motor vehicle crashes were the first and second leading causes of all TBI-related hospitalizations (52% and 20%, respectively).
  • Intentional self-harm was the first leading cause of TBI-related deaths (33%) in 2014

Learn more about brain injuries at the Brain Injury Association of America by clicking here.

FEBRUARY IS NATIONAL BURN AWARENESS MONTH

Home fires occur more in winter than in any other season. Here are a few tips to stay safe:

    • Working smoke alarms are especially important during a loss of power when people may use alternate forms of heating equipment, portable generators and candles.
    • Never use candles for emergency lighting. Many things in your home can catch fire if they are too close to a candle’s flame.
    • Use flashlights for emergency lighting and stock up on batteries.
    • Have a qualified repair company or licensed electrician inspect water-damaged appliances and home wiring after a flood.
    • Portable generators are useful during storms, but if not used safely, they can cause injury and death.
    • Keep portable generators outside, away from windows, and as far away as possible from your home.
    • Install and test carbon monoxide alarms at least once a month.

JANUARY IS HUMAN TRAFFICKING AWARENESS MONTH

To report suspected Human Trafficking to Federal law enforcement contact 1-866-347-2423

Human Trafficking:

Intimate Partner Violence/Teen Dating Violence:

  • Facts (YouTube video)
  • Preventing Intimate Partner Violence Fact Sheet
  • Preventing Teen Dating Violence Fact Sheet

SEPTEMBER IS NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION MONTH

If you need help, call 9-1-1 or contact the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255)

Memorial Healthcare offers personalized programs and services focusing on behavioral health and mental wellness. Treatment is provided by psychiatrists, social workers, RN’s, mental health technicians and recreational therapists and is based on patient needs and goals. Treatment includes assessment, psychopharmacology, education, therapeutic activities and therapy groups. The Behavioral Health Unit is a 19-bed, adult inpatient behavioral health unit. It provides 24-hour per day care to patients who need a safe, supportive environment. Patients are admitted on a voluntary or involuntary basis. Behavioral health services at Memorial Healthcare are licensed by the Michigan Department of Mental Health and accredited by the Joint Commission. To learn more, click here.

TRAUMA AND INJURY PREVENTION RESOURCES: