National Concussion Awareness Day is observed every third Friday of September, highlighting the critical importance of understanding and preventing brain injuries. Learn to recognize the signs of a concussion, know when to seek medical attention, and advocate for safer practices in sports and daily life.
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Expected National Concussion Awareness Day Deals
As a vital health awareness day, National Concussion Awareness Day focuses on education and advocacy rather than commercial deals. Organizations like the Brain Injury Association of America (BIAA) and the Concussion Legacy Foundation often launch awareness campaigns, offering free educational materials and resources. Corporate partners, such as sports equipment manufacturers like Riddell, may highlight their safety innovations or sponsor community outreach programs. Look for local hospitals and clinics, like those associated with Cleveland Clinic or Mayo Clinic, to host free screenings or informational webinars. We will update this page with confirmed live events and resources as September 18 approaches.
Platform Guide for National Concussion Awareness Day
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #ConcussionAwareness. Share infographics on concussion symptoms or short videos demonstrating proper helmet fitting.
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Mention @NatlToday and use #ConcussionAwareness. Participate in live discussions with experts or share links to the latest research and safety guidelines.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #ConcussionAwareness. Share personal stories of recovery or host a Q&A session with a local medical professional.
National Concussion Awareness Day Hero
Chris Nowinski
History of National Concussion Awareness Day
National Concussion Awareness Day is acknowledged by the Brain Injury Association of America. The day is registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office. Concussions have rapidly become a plague in the United States, with increased cases of mild traumatic brain injuries happening each year.
Traumatic brain injuries are classified as head injuries or injury to a part of the head resulting from damage to the brain by an external mechanical force or a stroke or infection. Concussion as a mild form of traumatic brain injury is a head injury that temporarily affects the functioning of the brain.
Regardless of its severity if left undiagnosed and untreated, concussions are easily overlooked and thus require an immediate and thorough evaluation by a qualified medical provider to rule out life-threatening head injuries or injuries to other parts of the system. Symptoms of a concussion last up to two weeks and can result in changes in mood and displays of unusual emotions.
The objective of National Concussion Awareness Day is to create an opportunity for healthcare practitioners, caretakers, and sufferers alike to have an open discussion of this issue. The goal is also to generate an increased circulation of information on the case to further educate the general public.
National Concussion Awareness Day timeline
The term "Concussion" comes into use with described symptoms.
Concussion gains medical understanding, setting it apart from other head injuries.
Early medical works define concussion as “commotion of the brain.”
Animal experiments elucidate no obvious damage occurs in concussions.
How Businesses Can Celebrate National Concussion Awareness Day
Local businesses can observe National Concussion Awareness Day by promoting a culture of safety. Sports facilities can offer free concussion baseline testing or host workshops on proper equipment use and safe play techniques. Workplaces can distribute educational materials on recognizing concussion symptoms and the importance of prompt medical attention, especially for employees in roles with higher risk of falls or impacts. Health and wellness centers can offer discounted consultations for post-concussion recovery programs, emphasizing the importance of specialized care.
National Concussion Awareness Day FAQs
When is National Concussion Awareness Day?
National Concussion Awareness Day 2026 falls on Friday, September 18. It’s a crucial reminder to prioritize brain health and safety in all activities.
How many concussions occur each year?
Estimates suggest that millions of concussions occur annually in the U.S., though many go undiagnosed. Sports-related concussions alone account for a significant portion, particularly among youth.
What are the common causes of concussions?
Concussions can result from various incidents, including falls, motor vehicle accidents, and sports injuries, especially in contact sports like football, soccer, and hockey. Any blow to the head or violent shaking of the body can cause one.
What is the difference between a concussion and a TBI?
A concussion is a mild form of traumatic brain injury (TBI), caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head that disrupts normal brain function. While concussions are generally not life-threatening, they are still serious and require proper care.
How to Observe National Concussion Awareness Day
Learn basic concussion tips and tricks
Learn and understand the basic skills necessary for recognizing a concussion, treating it appropriately, and supporting the injured.
Share your story
You can use your social media platform to share your story and or anyone’s story to raise awareness and educate the general public.
Join a brain injury awareness campaign
The Brain Injury Association of America (BIAA) leads the nation in observing Brain Injury Awareness each year. The theme for the 2021 to 2023 campaign is More Than My Brain Injury.
5 Facts About Epidemiology You Need To Know
It affects more young children
Young children have the highest concussion rate among all age groups.
It is severe in adult males
Males suffer at about twice the rate of their female counterparts.
It is a common sport injury
It is a daily injury in American football, rugby, MMA, and boxing
It targets athletes
Female athletes have a higher risk of suffering a concussion than male athletes.
It almost caused a boxing ban
Several medical groups have called for a ban on the sport due to persistent concussions cases.
Why National Concussion Awareness Day is Important
Create and increase concussion awareness
Many people still think someone can only be concussed if they are knocked out. National Concussion Awareness Day gives us the opportunity and platform to start a conversation and increase concussion awareness
Provide support to athletes.
Athletes with concussions return to play before they should, and some are skeptical about disclosing their health issues due to fear of being benched or sidelined. On this day, we support athletes going through breaks in their careers for health-related issues.
An opportunity to raise funds
The cost of recovery for brain injuries is high. On this day, we are excited about raising funds for charitable organizations dedicated to brain injury and show support for those affected through community events and other fun engagements.
National Concussion Awareness Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | September 19 | Friday |
| 2026 | September 18 | Friday |
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