When to See a Doctor

CTE develops over many years, sometimes long after repeated mild traumatic brain injury occurred. When symptoms do start to appear they can gradually evolve or they may come on quickly. Everyone is different. And even if you have CTE symptoms it does not mean you have CTE. Please seek a trained medical professional to help you. And never lose hope. We know some folks that have figured out how to live a decent life. It isn’t what they first dreamed about when they stepped on the football field seeking fame and glory. But it is okay. Many players find purpose in saving others from CTE and sharing their stories. Researchers are working hard on finding a cure.  Stay strong.

Please see your doctor in case of the following:

  • Suicidal thoughts, mental health issues or substance abuse problems: Text or call 988. People with CTE may be at increased risk of suicide. This can be a function of brain injury. If you have thoughts of hurting yourself, call 911, your local emergency number or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at text or call 988. Your life matters. We know for a fact Patrick wishes he was still here. Don’t let your brain spiral out of control.
  • Head injury. See your doctor if you have had a head injury, even if you didn’t need emergency care. If your child has received a head injury that concerns you, call your child’s doctor immediately. Depending on the signs and symptoms, your doctor may recommend seeking immediate medical care.
  • Memory problems. See your doctor if you have concerns about your memory or other thinking (cognitive) or behavior problems.
  • Personality or mood changes. See your doctor if depression, anxiety, aggression or impulsivity occur.

See: > Preparing for a Doctor Visit

To submit a request for help finding a mentor or doctor to the CLF Helpline, please see this link:

https://concussionfoundation.org/helpline

For information on physicians in your area who work with those suffering from brain trauma or to find a support group, please contact your local state Brain Injury Association or Alliance:

Ontario, Canada:

http://obia.ca/

If you have a disability and need help with a problem see this link and select your state to the right of the page:

http://www.ndrn.org/en/ndrn-member-agencies.html

The NFL also has a resource if you are in a crisis situation, The NFL Life Line. Though this service was created for NFL players and their families you are not required to give personal information and they may be more tuned in to sports/football head injury and problems.

The crisis line is 800-506-0078 or you can chat online:    http://nfllifeline.org/support/    

Also : the CLF Connection to a Concussion Specialists near you…

CLF Concussion Clinics: http://www.concussionclinics.org/

 

A LIST OF OVER 200 RESOURCES TO HELP WITH A VARIETY OF MENTAL HEALTH AND CRISIS CONDITIONS FROM the CRISIS TEXTLINE

https://concussionspainmentalhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/CPMHA-crisis-resource-book.pdf

SAMHSA Behavioral Health Treatment Services Locator

https://findtreatment.samhsa.gov/locator/home

The Academy of Certified Brain Injury Specialists (ACBIS) offers a voluntary national certification program for both direct care staff and professionals working in brain injury services. ACBIS provides the opportunity to learn important information about brain injury, to demonstrate learning in a written examination, and to earn a nationally recognized credential.

A complete current listing of ACBIS Certificants can be found here;

ACBIS Certificants

This site is for those in the United Kingdom

https://www.headway.org.uk/

Please also see:

Get Your Brain Injury ID Card Here                   Personalised card front

Next: > Preparing for a Doctor Visit

CTE Treatment Discussions