March is Brain Injury and Trauma Awareness Month

February 28, 2025 — People and Internal Operations

As we observe Brain Injury and Health Awareness Month this year, we wanted to take a moment to remind everyone about the importance of emotional wellness and the profound impact brain health has on our daily lives. Brain injuries — whether traumatic or from other causes — can lead to significant changes in a person’s emotional, mental and physical well-being. Understanding the connection between brain health and emotional wellness is vital, and taking care of our brains is essential to maintaining overall health.

A brain injury, even if it’s not immediately visible, can cause a range of emotional and cognitive changes. People who experience brain injuries may face challenges with memory, mood, decision-making and even their sense of identity. Additionally, mental health conditions like anxiety or depression may be linked to these changes. It's essential to recognize these struggles, not as weaknesses, but as real challenges requiring support and care.

This month, let’s remember that the journey to recovery or maintaining brain health involves a balance of physical care, emotional support and mental well-being. Whether you or someone you know has experienced a brain injury or if you’re simply looking to improve your cognitive and emotional health, here are a few tips to support wellness:

• Prioritize Rest and Recovery: Whether recovering from an injury or simply working to improve your brain health, proper sleep and relaxation are essential. Give your brain the time it needs to recharge.
• Engage in Cognitive Exercises: Just like physical exercise helps the body, mental exercises can help improve brain function. Activities like reading, puzzles, or memory games are not only fun but can help boost cognitive abilities.
• Stay Connected: Brain health can affect emotional well-being, so maintaining social connections is important. Even if you’re going through recovery or adjustment, reaching out to friends, family, or support groups can provide comfort and a sense of community.
• Practice Self-Compassion: If you're struggling with the impact of a brain injury, be kind to yourself. It’s important to acknowledge your challenges but also recognize your strengths. Patience and self-compassion are key to healing and growth.
• Proper Nutrition: A healthy brain diet includes fruits, vegetables, plant-based proteins, whole grains, nuts, poultry, omega-3s from fatty fish and healthy fats from olive oil and avocados.
• Seek Support: If you're feeling overwhelmed, don't hesitate to reach out to a professional who can help guide you through emotional or mental health challenges. There’s no need to navigate brain health or emotional wellness alone.

To all of those who are managing the effects of brain injuries, whether personally or through caring for loved ones, we see your strength and resilience. Your journey matters and your well-being is a priority. Let’s continue to support each other in recognizing the importance of brain health and emotional wellness, both for ourselves and those around us.

Attend an upcoming Welltalk covering an array of topics:

• March 6: Noon to 1 p.m. - Understanding Love Languages to Improve Relationships
• March 13: Noon to 1 p.m. - How Brain Injuries and Trauma Affect Relationships
• March 20: Noon to 1 p.m. - The Role of Sleep in Brain Health
• March 27: Noon to 1 p.m. - Stress, Body and Brain: Understanding the Connection

Also, from 10 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., every Monday, Mindfulness Mondays are dedicated to supporting you with stress management techniques and mental health tips.

If you, a family member or a team member are struggling with feelings or emotions that interfere with your or their ability to engage in daily life, please feel free to reach out to our team at Miami-Dade EAP. Our EAP counselors focus on supporting employees with internal and external resources that assist in setting the foundation for restoration or enhancement of emotional and mental wellness. The EAP is providing virtual and on-site assessments for all employees that are in need of assistance.

To set up an assessment with an EAP counselor, contact 305-375-3293 or email Jessica.Hughes-Fillette@miamidade.gov. The hours of operation are Mon. to Fri. from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.