A concussion is more than just a bump on the head.

For most of us, the word concussion probably brings a familiar image to mind.

A football player takes a hard hit. A child falls off a bicycle. An athlete gets knocked to the ground.

They shake it off, maybe sit out for a while, and eventually get back in the game.

But here’s the thing about concussions:

They’re brain injuries.

And sometimes, you can’t see them.

A concussion can happen from a blow or jolt to the head—or even a hit to the body that causes the brain to move rapidly inside the skull. The symptoms can be physical, but they can also affect memory, concentration, emotions, behavior and sleep. And those symptoms don’t always show up immediately. (⁠CDC)

That’s why awareness matters.

Throughout September, The Crumley House is putting a special focus on concussion awareness. We’ll be sharing information, facts and resources designed to help people recognize concussions, understand their potential impact and, most importantly, know when it’s time to take one seriously.

Because knowing what to look for can make a difference.

And knowing that a concussion is a brain injury—not simply a bump on the head—is a good place to start.

Friday, September 18, is National Concussion Awareness Day. It is an opportunity to start conversations about concussion prevention, recognition, treatment and the people who continue to live with the effects of brain injury.

So throughout September, we invite you to learn along with us.

Know the signs. Know the risks. Know when to get help.

Because when it comes to the brain, there’s really no such thing as “just shake it off.”

September is Concussion Awareness Month. Let’s use it to start a conversation.