Understanding Traumatic Brain Injury

Goodwill Industries of New Mexico offers a range of free programs and services to individuals in the state, from job readiness training and employment support to an array of services for veterans. In addition to the services listed above, Goodwill also provides specialized social services through their Brain Injury Case Management program that includes support, care and coaching that make transitioning after a traumatic or acquired brain injury less intimidating.

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is typically understood as any brain injury that occurs when sudden trauma causes damage to the brain. These injuries can result in minor symptoms such as ringing ears and dizziness, to much more severe symptoms that include confusion, loss of coordination, and seizures. Many people fail to understand the severity of traumatic brain injuries and their potential to devastate the lives of those who suffer from them. Acquired brain injuries are also devastating and can result from medical episodes such as a stroke or swelling of the brain. Symptoms can be just as devastating as a traumatic brain injury.

The prevalence of brain injuries is often overlooked. There are more than 2.5 million hospitalizations resulting from brain injuries in the United States each year. The sheer number of individuals effected by such injuries, on any scale, means there is a huge population of brain injury sufferers in need of life and health-sustaining physical, financial, and emotional support.

Goodwill develops and promotes healthy living and successful reintegration into everyday life for those who have an acquired or traumatic brain injuries through their comprehensive Brain Injury Case Management program. Initial care for those with a brain injury can include surgery and assistive equipment upon release from the hospital while long-term solutions offered by Goodwill's program include life coaching, therapy services, and assistance managing the cost of prescriptions. Some individuals may struggle with cognitive function, sensory processing, and mental health in the aftermath of brain injury.

Through the range of services provided to those in need, Goodwill strives to enhance the quality of life for thousands of people in New Mexico.

To learn more or apply for Goodwill’s Brain Injury Case Management program click here or call (505) 881.6401.  

About The Author
Maggie Grimason is a blog writer living in Albuquerque, NM. She grew up in a family of social servants and teachers in northern Indiana and finds that blogging for Goodwill Industries of New Mexico satisfies creative energies as well as her commitment to ethical living and community service.

---