Brain Injury Awareness Month: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about Brain Injury Awareness Month (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. Brain Injury Awareness Month is observed on March 1st.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of Brain Injury Awareness Month, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as fun facts you might want to know about Brain Injury Awareness Month.

📅 What day is Brain Injury Awareness Month 2024?

In 2024, Brain Injury Awareness Month is on Wednesday, March 1st. It is the 1st Wednesday in March; in 2024, it is Friday. There are until the next observance. You also can learn all the fun details and facts about March 1, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

In the US, March is dedicated to raising awareness about brain injuries. These injuries can occur from falls, strong blows to the head, or sharp objects penetrating the brain. Unfortunately, the elderly are more susceptible to these injuries, with a higher mortality rate for brain injuries resulting from falls in those over 75 years old. Each year, at least 2.8 million Americans experience traumatic brain injuries. Many people are uncertain about how to engage with individuals affected by these injuries, which is why Brain Injury Awareness Month was created.

📜 Brain Injury Awareness Month History

If a brain injury occurs after birth, it is divided into two main categories. Acquired brain injury refers to internal malfunctions that are not caused by birth or genetics, such as tumors, oxygen shortages, or other illnesses that harm the brain. This is also known as non-traumatic brain injury. On the other hand, traumatic brain injury is caused by an external force or collision.

Brain Damage Awareness Month aims to bring attention to the various aspects of brain injury that the BIAA focuses on. Originally established in 1980 as the National Head Injury Foundation (NHIF), it changed its name to BIAA in 1995. It claims to be the oldest and largest organization in the United States dedicated to brain injury research. The organization addresses various areas related to brain injury, including policy and activism, legal and justice matters, medical treatment and research, education, and collaboration with the US Department of Education. In March, the goal is to raise awareness about these broader, structural components of brain damage that may not immediately come to mind when thinking about brain injuries.

✅ Brain Injury Awareness Month Facts

🔖 Most brain injuries are from falls
Almost half (48%) of all brain injuries are caused by falls.

🔖 Fall-related deaths have increased
According to a study, the number of older individuals who died due to falls increased between 2007 and 2016. Additionally, another study found that there was a yearly increase in fall-related deaths in 2020.

🔖 The 1990s and the brain
President George W. Bush coined the term “Brain Decade” to refer to the 1990s.

👍 Why Is Brain Injury Awareness Month Important

There is so much to learn about the brain, including how to protect and care for it in the aftermath of a traumatic event. The subject is enormous and has real-world implications for millions of Americans. March is a chance for us to raise our personal awareness of the problem.

Some occupations have a greater risk of brain damage than others. However, this is an issue that, under the wrong circumstances, might impact any of us. We need to be prepared to protect our heads, prevent injury, and locate the appropriate resources in the event of an injury.

Organizations such as the BIAA have a wealth of resources to help aspiring fundraisers and general advocates get started. They also have contacts with several government agencies. This is an issue that has garnered government attention and is ready for future development.

🙂 How To Observe Brain Injury Awareness Month

⚡ Learn policy priorities
We may advocate for changes in laws to reduce the number of traumatic brain injuries and support research for better treatment and care. Additionally, there is a Congressional Task Force investigating this matter, which presents a great chance for us to contribute to a larger movement that can positively impact people’s lives.

⚡ Read about the topic
The BIAA and other similar organizations offer a wide range of online resources for everyone, including individuals, patients, and families. These resources cover various topics related to brain injuries, including different types of injuries, ways to prevent them, treatment options, and legal alternatives. On their website, you can also find downloadable materials like posters and papers that are easy to share on social media.

⚡ Find a local chapter
The BIAA in the US has chapters in different states, and you can find their contact details on their website. This allows you to get in touch with them and get updates on their upcoming events and activities. Additionally, you can access information about your state that you can share with others or post on social media platforms.

📅 When is Brain Injury Awareness Month?

Explore all 🔗 March holidays, including 🔗 Health and other 🔗 Awareness holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and fun facts about Brain Injury Awareness Month. So be sure to check back soon.