Just Injured — What Now?

If you’re reading this right after a head injury, take a deep breath. You’re in the right place.


We know how scary and confusing this moment can feel — the uncertainty, the symptoms, the worry about what comes next. You’re not alone. We’re here to help you understand what’s happening and what steps to take to protect your brain and start healing safely.

CONCUSSION 101
EARLY MANAGEMENT
external resources

Concussion 101

Protecting your brain starts with simple choices. The right equipment and small daily habits can help prevent serious injuries before they happen. This section shares practical ways to stay safe, whether you’re on the mountain, the road, or just out having fun.

  • A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body that causes the brain to move quickly inside the skull. It can affect how your brain functions temporarily and may cause physical, emotional, and cognitive symptoms.

  • Knowing the SIGNALS of a concussion could save you or a friends life.

    S – Sleep Disruption

    Trouble falling or staying asleep, or sleeping more than usual

    I – Irritability & Mood Changes

    Increased emotional sensitivity, mood swings, or frustration

    G – Gut Symptoms

    Nausea, vomiting, or stomach discomfort

    N – Neuro Fog & Dizziness

    Foggy thinking, disorientation, or balance issues

    A – Attention & Memory Problems

    Difficulty focusing, forgetfulness, or confusion

    L – Light Sensitivity & Headaches

    Discomfort with lights, loud sounds, or persistent headaches

    S – Serious Signs

    Vision changes or loss of consciousness (rare but important)

  • CALL 911 OR TAKE TO THE EMERGENCY ROOM RIGHT AWAY

    • One pupil larger than the other

    • Excessive drowsiness or inability to wake up

    • A headache that gets worse or does not go away

    • Slurred speech, weakness, numbness

    • Repeated vomiting or nausea

    • Convulsions or seizures

    • Unusual behavior like restlessness or agitation

    • Loss of consciousness (passed out/knocked out)

    If you witness a head injury, do not try to evaluate it yourself. Always seek care from a medical professional.

Early Management

  • The first few days after an injury are about rest and protection.

    • Give your brain a break: minimize screens, loud environments, and strenuous activity.

    • Sleep is okay — let your body heal.

    • Stay hydrated and eat nourishing foods.

    • Ask someone to check on you, especially in the first 24–48 hours.

    1. Rest: Limit activity and give your brain space to heal.

    2. Gradual Return: Slowly add back light tasks as symptoms improve.

    3. Reintegration: Resume normal activities once cleared by a doctor and symptom-free.

  • Do:

    • Listen to your body

    • Rest when needed

    • Communicate with your support system

    Don’t:

    • “Push through” symptoms

    • Return to play or work too soon

    • Ignore new or worsening signs

External Resources

If you’re unsure or need support, these resources can connect you with help.

treatment centers
support groups
download the concussion guide

Explore More Resources

Wherever you are in your journey, there’s more here to help you keep learning and healing.

You can keep exploring by visiting:

Prevention & Brain Health to learn simple, everyday steps to protect your brain.

Just Injured — What Now? to learn the first steps after a concussion.

On the Road to Recovery for tips and tools that support healing.

Healing Journey for support as you transition back to your routines.

Living With Lasting Symptoms if you’re managing long-term effects.

Supporting Loved Ones to help someone else through their recovery.

You don’t have to go through this alone — take your time, explore what feels helpful, and know that every page here was made with care for you.