Brain injury (almost always including a concussion) is the signature injury of the Mid-East conflicts.
Only the Illinois National Guard tests returning Vets for PCS and PTSD with brain scans.
The V. A. has opened 14 additional health centers to accommodate the Vets with PCS and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder symptoms.
Improved battlefield medical techniques have resulted in a larger number of wounded returning from war. Typically, their visible wounds draw more attention than the invisible damage to the brain.
2. Education & Schools
One third of all high school students will receive a concussion during their four years of school.
Many students experience low test scores combined with an inability to learn, about one third of student bodies are chronic underachievers.
Drop outs - Interestingly, one third of all high school students drop out of school, typically citing the symptoms of PCS as the reason.
In high schools the activities with the highest incidence of concussion are: (in order) cheerleading, girl’s soccer, hockey, boy’s soccer, football, and water polo.
3. Substance Abuse
People with PCS seek brain stimulation and/or self-medication to counteract the pain of anxiety and depression.
Meth-amphetamine and cocaine are the drugs of choice.
According to an Olympic medalist, nearly all of the world class tower divers use cocaine due to multiple concussions during training.
4. Family Life
Parental disappointment issues over grades and behaviors are compounded by the reactions of teens who are unable to react normally due to PCS.
Negative behavior not properly diagnosed leads to feelings of rejection and alienation.
5. Depression and Suicide
Two million adolescents attempt suicide each year.
Suicide is the third leading cause of death for adolescents.
100 attempts for every death by suicide.
700,000 adolescents receive medical attention following suicide attempts.
12% of adolescents suffer depression at any given time.
Only one in five of these ever receives mental health treatment.
The film addresses all these issues in more depth. If you want to know more about PCS, then you should see this movie.
One third of all high school students will receive a concussion during their four years of school.
People with PCS seek brain stimulation and/or self-medication to counteract the pain of anxiety and depression.
Two million adolescents attempt suicide each year.
