One topic that surfaces regularly regarding concussion is the reporting aspect. Consensus is that people often don’t report a concussion when they sustain one. It’s a mystery. People wonder why: is it societal norms, pressure to compete, reluctance to miss out, concern about missing opportunities? There are many possible reasons, I imagine. Well, I have some thoughts on why everyone should report concussions. I think reporting is the better choice. Here’s why.

1: Timing is important.

The first 72 hours after sustaining a concussion are important. Chemical processes occur (the neurometabolic cascade) that run through a cycle. If you return to activity before those processes run through to completion, you’re at risk of further injury. For some, that may result in second impact syndrome (SIS). Even if you’re cleared in the first day, symptoms might surface later on in that initial period. You might end up right back at the doctor’s office.

If you sustain a concussion, particularly at a sports event, report it and take yourself out of the action if need be. This is definitely a situation where it’s better to be safe than sorry!

2: More treatments are available.

You’re actually in a better position than even a few years ago. Concussion is finally taken more seriously. There is more focus on addressing the various symptoms, including balance issues and vision and others. If you report your concussion and can start treatment sooner, you can potentially return to your life and activities sooner. Ignoring the situation only worsens and prolongs it.

3: It shows strength.

Life is built of moments. Some are defining moments. Some have long-term effects. When faced with another fork in the road where you must choose a path: report a concussion or not, draw upon your strength and do what you need to do for you. Which path do you take? The one that might help resolve the situation more quickly, or the one that might delay progress? I know it can be difficult to put yourself first sometimes, but there are times when it’s the right thing to do. This might just be one of those times.

4: It shows leadership.

Yes, absolutely it’s important to think about yourself and to take care of yourself. At the same time, choosing to report a concussion can set an example. That’s especially true if you’re part of a sports team. It definitely can show leadership. If you report a concussion, receive treatment sooner, and possibly return to activities sooner, it’s a great example to others on your team. Also, once cleared to return to active status on your team, wouldn’t you be able to make more contributions to help said team?

You honestly never know how events might ripple outward and who might be affected. Others watching your reaction to a situation might act based on the decisions you make and the actions you take. This is a way to show responsibility and leadership, IMO.

5: It reduces stress.

Let’s face it. Dealing with a concussion can be stressful. You might be experiencing multiple symptoms. There might be pressure in your life from home, work, school, teammates and coaches in various ways. You might be worried about what’s happening. Stress exacerbates some symptoms. You might be losing sleep. All that pressure and worry is likely making everything worse.

Good news! There’s a way out. Give yourself a break! Report your concussion to get treatment going and remove barriers in your recovery path. Make it as smooth a journey as possible.

. . .

There’s no set timeline for recovery from a concussion. Each person and situation is different. As I like to say, the only guarantee I know of is that recovery will take longer than you like. However, you could make it worse. If you don’t take this important first step to report a concussion, you can’t even begin your recovery journey.