What is Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Atraumatic brain injury (TBI) is a temporary or permanent impairment of the brain caused by a blow or jolt to the head. Not all blows or jolts to the head, however, result in a traumatic brain injury. A TBI is often caused by a penetrating wound to the head.

The severity of the injury may range from mild― where a person might be briefly confused or unconsciousness, to severe― where a person suffers an extended period of unconsciousness or amnesia after the injury.

Military duties increase the risk of sustaining a TBI. Blasts are a leading cause of TBI for active duty military personnel in combat. Other causes of TBI in the military are:

Bullets and fragments
Motor vehicle-traffic crashes
Assaults
Falls

Is there any treatment?

Fortunately, there are treatments for TBI available. The first step is getting screened for TBI. Call the Illinois Warrior Assistance Program at 866-554-IWAP (4927) and ask to be screened for TBI.

IWAP is a free and confidential resource provided by the State of Illinois. It is not connected to the U.S. Armed Forces or the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

IWAP services are provided by Magellan Health Services, a nationally recognized leader in mental health and wellness.

Confidential help is available

You're not alone. We're here to help. The Illinois Warrior Assistance Program is a free program for returning Veterans. Confidential assistance is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also ask a specialist. Call now – 866-554-IWAP (4927).

Created by Magellan Health Services staff; reviewed by Magellan clinical staff