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Traumatic Brain Injury: Habits2Have

Every day you make choices that can either contribute to or detract from your long-term health. Choose wisely. Here are some Habits to Have® to reduce your risks from TBI:

When in doubt, always check it out.

Stop and get immediate medical attention

Serious TBI is fairly obvious, but mild TBI can be hard to diagnose. Either way, quick medical attention can help prevent further damage, especially from a second impact. Don’t waste time thinking – stop whatever you were doing that caused the injury and get medical attention right away.

Always, always, always wear a helmet.

It’s the most effective form of TBI prevention

You’ve heard it a million times. But do you do it? Every time? Not just in competition, but at practices too? Whether you’re doing sports or just having fun, make sure you have the right helmet for each activity and wear it properly. Because looking smart is looking good.

Always buckle up when you’re driving.

Seatbelts do more good than harm

Car accidents are a major cause of TBI. Buckling up keeps your head where it belongs – on top of your shoulders. So don’t turn the ignition key until everyone is buckled up.

Always put younger kids in car seats.

Height and weight are the only way to know

Even a fender-bender can send kids flying. Until they are of a certain size and weight, kids need a special seat, not just a seatbelt. Your kids are counting on you to do the right thing.

Always see your way clear.

Don’t let objects or your feet trip you up

All it takes is a little fall, indoors, outdoors or on the stairs. So keep walking spaces clear and simply watch where you’re going, even in familiar surroundings. After all, you don’t have to be a total brain to protect one.