HeadsUp NYC

Brain Injury 101

Understanding brain injury.

A plain-language primer on what happens when the brain is hurt, how to recognize it, and why the emotional aftermath deserves as much attention as the physical one.

The basics

What is a traumatic brain injury (TBI)?

A traumatic brain injury happens when a sudden jolt, blow, or penetrating injury disrupts normal brain function. It ranges from mild (a concussion) to severe, and effects can be temporary or lifelong.

How it happens

Common causes

  • Falls (the leading cause across age groups, especially for young children and older adults)
  • Sports and recreational activities
  • Motor vehicle and cycling incidents
  • Workplace accidents
  • Physical assault

Recognize it

Signs and symptoms to watch for

  • Headache or pressure in the head
  • Confusion, dizziness, or balance problems
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Sensitivity to light or noise
  • Memory problems or feeling "foggy"
  • Mood changes, irritability, or unusual fatigue
  • Loss of consciousness (even briefly)

Often overlooked

The mental health connection

Brain injury and mental health are deeply linked. After a concussion or TBI, many people experience:

  • Increased risk of depression and anxiety
  • Irritability or sudden mood swings
  • Difficulty concentrating or "brain fog"
  • Sleep disturbances
  • In some cases, longer-term cognitive changes

This is one of the most overlooked parts of brain injury recovery — the physical symptoms often get treated, while the emotional aftermath goes unaddressed. Part of HeadsUp NYC's mission is making sure that doesn't happen.

Prevention tipsRead real stories