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Mental Health Matters in March

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Mental Health Matters in March

The new year is an ideal time to reassess and take stock of our mental health. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, 1,405,000 adults in Georgia and 937,000 adults in Tennessee have a mental health condition. This is a significant percentage of both states’ populations. While some mental health disabilities are genetic, many result from traumatic brain injuries (TBI), which are complex types of injuries because they can have long-term mental health effects.

Ahead of Brain Injury Awareness Month in March, let’s review TBI risks and causes and best practices for prevention in Chattanooga, TN as well as Cartersville and Woodstock, GA.

We’ll also discuss the resources available for our neighbors in Cherokee County, Georgia whose mental health conditions could qualify them for treatment services amid legal proceedings, thanks to the Cherokee Judicial Mental Health Community Council and its Mental Health Court. The organization Run for Hope 5K & 1 Mile will be Saturday, Feb 8.

Common Causes of TBI in North Georgia and Tennessee

TBI is a form of catastrophic injury since it causes long-term or permanent damage to a person's physical, emotional, or cognitive abilities. TBI can change a life and personality in an instant. Preventative measures are needed in several scenarios to mitigate the effect of a blow to the head.

The Brain Injury Association of Georgia estimates that more than 30,000 suspected traumatic brain injuries are reported annually through the Central Registry. Similarly, the Tennessee Department of Health notes that approximately 25,000 Tennesseans sustain TBI each year.

Common accidents that frequently lead to TBI include:

Truck and Car Accidents: Whiplash or impact with the steering wheel, dashboard, or a passenger can cause significant head trauma.

Motorcycle Accidents: Riding without a helmet and protective gear increases the risk of severe injury. Accidents involving cars, trucks, and motorcycles in Cartersville, Woodstock, and Chattanooga have led to some of the most severe TBI claims Pritchard Injury Firm has handled.

Slip and Falls: Falls cause nearly half of all TBIs, and can cause a victim to slam their head on the floor or hit an object, like a desk or a filing cabinet.

Sports Injuries: TBIs are common in football, soccer, lacrosse, and other contact sports. Baseball players could even suffer a TBI if hit with the ball or the bat.

Criminal Activity: An assault can cause TBI, especially if the victim is struck in the face or head.

Additionally, it is widely known that construction is the industry with the most reported spinal, head and brain injuries. Wearing hard hats and other protective gear can mitigate the risk of a TBI, but cannot be the only preventative measure. Other safe work practices and tips include:

  • Install overhead barriers or netting to catch falling debris.
  • Use guardrails, toe boards, and tool lanyards to prevent tools or materials from falling.
  • Ensuring ladders and scaffolding are used correctly and properly maintained.
  • Implement fall arrest systems, including harnesses and lifelines, for work at heights.
  • Continuously train workers on the effective use of fall protection equipment.

These tips should be complemented by clear procedures for head injuries, including recognizing symptoms of concussions and providing immediate medical attention.

How To Treat AConcussion or TBI

If you or your loved one has sustained a concussion – or if you believe they have – seek regular medical check-ups. This is not a time for the victim to be tough or stubborn; do not walk it off and do not let anyone downplay your symptoms.

For those involved in high-risk activities, regular medical check-ups can help monitor brain health and detect potential issues early.

Cherokee Judicial Mental Health Court Program – Local Legal Resources for Those Suffering

Cherokee Judicial Mental Health Court (MHC) is the second accountability court to serve Bartow and Gordon counties. Proudly located in Bartow County, in Cartersville, the program provides an alternative to incarceration for participants who meet specific mental health.

To support the program, the Cherokee Judicial Mental Health Community Council will host its first 5K run on Feb. 8. The Cupid Run for Hope 5K & 1 Mile aims to raise and support for the Mental Health Court program and participants’ basic necessities. This could include assistance with the cost of medications, transportation, and other needs that support their success in the program. As a local business headquartered in Cartersville, Pritchard Injury Firm is proud to sponsor this event and advocate for legal programs that provide valuable services to our community. Register by Feb. 2 for the Cupid Run for Hope 5K & 1 Mile on Saturday, Feb 8.

Your GA/TN Injury Lawyer

Pritchard Injury Firm wants everyone in North Georgia and Tennessee to recognize concussion symptoms, understand their connection to TBI be aware of their long-term impact. Contact us if you have suffered a concussion or head injury due to the recklessness or negligence of someone else. Pritchard Injury Firm is here to provide a free consultation and the compassionate legal and emotional support you deserve.