Understanding and Supporting Veterans with Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is a serious condition that affects millions each year, especially military service members and veterans. It happens when a sudden impact or trauma damages the brain, leading to challenges with thinking, communication, emotions, movement, and daily life.

“I probably wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for HOPE. I thought I had things under control, but all it takes is one bad day. Then you realize you need support, and HOPE was there.” Nick Guernsey, HOPE Ambassador

At Hope For The Warriors, we are committed to supporting veterans, service members, and their families by providing resources and a compassionate community to navigate the challenges of TBI recovery.

The U.S. Department of Defense reports that more than 375,000 service members have been diagnosed with TBI between 2000 and 2017.

Due to the nature of military service, veterans face a heightened risk of sustaining TBIs from various causes, including:

• Blast exposure from improvised explosive devices (IEDs) or heavy artillery
• Combat-related injuries
• Falls or vehicle accidents
• Repetitive concussive activities, such as firing heavy weaponry

TBI symptoms can vary based on severity and cause, but common short-term symptoms include:

• Loss of consciousness
• Persistent headaches or migraines
• Blurred vision or dizziness
• Sensory changes (hearing, taste, or smell)
• Difficulty concentrating or remembering
• Increased irritability and frustration

Unfortunately, TBIs can also have long-term effects that impact a person’s overall well-being.

Research has shown that multiple TBIs increase the risk of developing chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), Alzheimer’s disease, and other forms of dementia (Shively et al., 2012).

This highlights the importance of early diagnosis, treatment, and long-term support for those affected.

Brianne Sampson, Director of Clinical Support and Emotional Wellness at Hope For The Warriors, underscores the importance of clear communication and personalized support.

“Providing written and verbal communication allows for better processing and recall, ensuring veterans receive the right support. Impulsivity and physical symptoms like migraines can impact employment and financial stability, so an empathetic approach is critical.”

At Hope For The Warriors, we provide comprehensive programs to assist veterans, including:

• Counseling and wellness services to address the emotional and psychological effects of TBI
• Financial assistance for those struggling with employment due to TBI symptoms
• Physical and emotional wellness programs to help veterans reconnect with peers and build confidence
• Career transition support for veterans navigating employment challenges after sustaining a TBI

Hope For The Warriors has long been a beacon of support for service members and their families, and few know this better than Nick Guernsey.

Nick is a Purple Heart recipient and a HOPE Ambassador who struggled with PTSD and TBI after returning from deployment in 2005. Reflecting on his journey, Nick shares how HOPE became a critical lifeline for him during his struggles.

“I clicked with [HOPE’s Military Relations Director] Lee Bonar right away. I have so much respect for him. He always calls at the right time. There were days I didn’t know how to get through, and then Lee would call in the afternoon. It was like, ‘Alright man, we’re good, we can move on.’ That pep talk kept me going,” Nick recalls. (Watch video below)

https://youtu.be/5MkcL9h3DGY

Nick has been vocal about the challenges surrounding TBIs and PTSD, conditions that often go unnoticed or are misdiagnosed.

“For years, I could hide it. I told the doctors what they wanted to hear so I could go home. But then I realized—I wasn’t okay. I was slurring my speech, struggling to comprehend things, but I kept telling myself it was nothing. When I finally got help, I learned that my symptoms weren’t just PTSD—they were the effects of a brain injury. And that changed everything.”

Through Hope For The Warriors, Nick found a renewed purpose.

“Somebody brought me back for a reason, and right now, I feel like HOPE is that reason. If I can help even one service member who’s struggling, it’s worth it.” The journey of healing isn’t easy, but as Nick’s story highlights, having a strong support system makes all the difference. Hope For The Warriors continues to stand by those who serve, ensuring that no one walks the path alone.

Beyond direct support, Hope For The Warriors actively advocates for policies improving care for TBI veterans.

One key legislative effort to watch in 2025 is the Blast Overpressure Safety Act (S.4109 / H.R.8025). This bipartisan bill aims to improve the Department of Defense’s approach to blast exposure and brain health initiatives. If passed, it will:

• Implement regular brain function testing for service members
• Establish TBI tracking logs for those exposed to blast overpressure
• Enhance safety measures in military weapons development
• Improve treatment programs for those affected by TBI

This legislation is crucial in ensuring that military personnel and veterans receive the best possible care and protection against long-term brain health issues.

Many veterans struggle silently, but reaching out for help can make all the difference. Whether you are a veteran, a family member, or a supporter, understanding TBI and advocating for better care is essential to improving the lives of those who have served.

At Hope For The Warriors, we believe that no veteran should have to navigate TBI alone. There are several ways you can contribute:

• Donate to fund life-changing programs for veterans and their families
• Spread awareness by sharing this blog and talking about TBI in your community
• Connect to Services to find programs and services that Hope For The Warriors offers to fit your needs

By working together, we forge a strong community that champions courage, grit ,and a better future for veterans with TBI. Join us in making a difference.

Visit Hope For The Warriors today.

*For more posts from HFTW, visit their M:M Expert Author Page.