Dr. Sarah Bullard, Director of Psychology, Gaylord Specialty Healthcare
When kids and student athletes fall, get hit, or collide on the field, most parents look for the obvious signs of injury.
But concussions don’t always work that way. Sometimes symptoms can begin to appear hours later, or not in the visible ways one might expect. Further complicating matters is the fact that studies show that many young athletes are hesitant to tell anyone when they are hurt.
Why young athletes don’t report concussion:
In one study of more than 400 high school athletes, fifty-five percent said they didn’t or wouldn’t report a concussion.
The most common reasons given was that they did not want to miss playing time and did not want to let their coach or their team down. Many admitted that they didn’t realize the seriousness of their symptoms.
Ignoring concussion symptoms complicates long-term recovery.
Unfortunately, the old “suck it up” after an injury mentality is still ingrained in sports culture. And while perseverance pays off in many areas of life, the opposite is true when it comes to concussion recovery.
The brain heals differently. The more you push it before its ready, the longer recovery can take. Some activity is helpful, but too much, too soon can set healing back.
One analogy I give is this: trying to “push through” a concussion is like jumping up and down on a broken leg to help it heal. It only makes things worse.
Parents need to stay alert by following these five tips:
- Pay attention after any bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body.
Even if your child appears fine, keep an eye on them for the next 48 hours.
- Ask direct questions.
Instead of “Are you okay?” try direct questions like “Do you feel dizzy?” or “Is your head hurting?” Specific questions make it harder for kids to brush off their symptoms.
- Watch for changes in behavior.
Is your child unusually tired, emotional, or struggling with homework? Shifts in mood, energy, or focus can signal that something more significant is happening.
- Take them out of play if you suspect a concussion.
It’s better to miss one game than risk a serious complication that can prolong recovery.
- Get them checked by a healthcare professional.
Only a provider trained in concussion care can determine when it’s safe for your child to return to school or sports.
The Bottom Line:
You may not always know right away if your child has a concussion and your child may not tell you about their symptoms. That’s why awareness and vigilance are vital. When in doubt, sit them out and seek immediate medical guidance.
Learn more about concussion care with Gaylord Specialty Healthcare.
This content is for educational purposes only and is meant to provide general information. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns about your health. In case of a medical emergency, contact your doctor or call 911 right away.
