March is Brain Injury Awareness Month - The DV Walking Wounded

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I have a mild Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), due to long-term domestic abuse so I am posting this as a PSA…I used to be so sharp and organized and multi-functioning. My TBI has really limited me severely. I write to keep my brain synapses going…I think better through my fingers, it would seem…

Domestic violence is a complex issue that can have profound physical and psychological impacts on survivors, including traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). TBIs result from a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or a penetrating head injury that disrupts the normal function of the brain. In the context of domestic violence, TBIs can occur due to direct blows to the head, strangulation, or being thrown against objects.

Here are some important points to consider regarding domestic violence and TBIs:

1. Prevalence: Studies have shown a high prevalence of TBIs among survivors of domestic violence. According to research, anywhere from 50% to 90% of survivors have reported experiencing head injuries during abusive incidents.
2. Types of Injuries: TBIs resulting from domestic violence can range from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries. They may manifest as headaches, dizziness, confusion, memory problems, difficulty concentrating, mood changes, and other cognitive or neurological symptoms.
3. Underreporting: Many survivors of domestic violence may not seek medical attention for their injuries due to fear, shame, or dependency on the abuser. This can lead to underreporting of TBIs and other health consequences of abuse.
4. Cumulative Effects: Survivors of repeated domestic violence incidents may experience cumulative brain injuries, leading to long-term cognitive impairment and neurological damage.
5. Challenges in Diagnosis and Treatment: Recognizing and addressing TBIs in the context of domestic violence can be challenging for healthcare providers. Symptoms of TBIs may overlap with other physical and psychological effects of abuse, making diagnosis difficult. Additionally, survivors may face barriers to accessing appropriate medical care and support services.
6. Intersectionality: It’s important to recognize the intersectionality of domestic violence and TBI, as individuals from marginalized communities may face additional barriers to accessing healthcare and support services.
7. Trauma-Informed Care: Healthcare providers and support services should adopt a trauma-informed approach when working with survivors of domestic violence who have experienced TBIs. This involves understanding the impact of trauma on survivors’ physical and mental health and providing compassionate, culturally sensitive care.

Addressing the intersection of domestic violence and traumatic brain injuries requires a comprehensive approach that involves healthcare providers, advocacy organizations, law enforcement, policymakers, and the community working together to support survivors, raise awareness, and prevent future incidents of violence.

I listened to a wonderful recent (March 13, 2024) NPR radio broadcast on how DV is now recognized as the LEAD cause of Traumatic Brain Injuries. TRIGGER WARNING: discussion of violence-related behavior.

Listen here: https://www.npr.org/player/embed/1238225255/1238225256