Tragically, an estimated 2 million people suffer from traumatic brain injuries (TBI) every year in the United States. In fact, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), 52,000 people die each year, while an additional 275,000 will require hospitalization for their injuries (with 80% receiving treatment and being released). Simply put, you can begin to see why TBIs are such a serious issue in the U.S. Although a lot of people sustain injuries, a multitude of them leave the hospital and go home, where some of the worst symptoms begin to set in. So, what could possibly make this situation worse? How about throwing in addiction on top of this terrible condition? Let’s take a closer look at the connection between addiction and traumatic brain injuries.
Types of Traumatic Brain Injuries
When people suffer from a traumatic brain injury, the impact of an object (resulting of a collision) will destroy sensitive brain tissue, which can cause severe swelling or bleeding. As a result, normal functions including neurochemical processing and oxygen flow will be stifled. In the worst case scenario, the victim will die. The two categories of TBIs include closed-head (an object does not pierce the skull) or open-head (an object cracked the skull and entered the brain). Other types include:
- Deceleration injuries
- Chemical/toxin-related injuries
- Brain tumors
- Brain infections
- Stroke
TBIs and Abuse/Addiction
Overall, the connections between TBIs and abuse/addiction actually go both ways. First, certain people may use drugs or alcohol after during an injury (resulting in a much longer recovery time). On the other hand, addicts and alcoholics have a much higher risk of TBIs due to their rampant lifestyles. In fact, recent statistics show that 1 out of 3 people who suffered TBIs also have a history of drug abuse, alcohol abuse, or addiction.
Additional research reveals that TBI and addiction can be a deadly joint venture. In fact, when a person suffers from substance abuse or addiction, they are at a higher risk for these TBI-related outcomes:
- Higher chance of death
- Increased risk of further health complications
- Lower chance of discharge from a hospital
- Higher risk of disabilities
Always remember that drugs and alcohol do not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug abuse, alcohol abuse, or addiction troubles today.
