National Concussion Awareness Day: Busting Myths, Protecting Athletes

Every September, National Concussion Awareness Day reminds us that concussions are not “just a bump on the head.” For athletes, parents, coaches, and communities, understanding the truth about concussions can make the difference between recovery and long-term challenges. Approximately 3.8 million sports-related concussions occur annually in the United States, yet experts estimate that up to 50% go unreported or unrecognized.

At Power of Patients, we empower brain injury survivors through data, advocacy, and innovation. Our mission is to dismantle stigma, improve recovery, and ensure patients’ voices are heard. Today, let’s set the record straight on some of the most common myths about concussions in sports.

MYTH: You must lose consciousness to have a concussion

FACT: Over 90% of people who sustain a concussion do NOT lose consciousness. This is perhaps the most dangerous myth because it leads countless athletes to continue playing while injured. Research from the University of Michigan's NeuroSport program confirms that loss of consciousness occurs in fewer than 10% of concussions. A concussion can happen with any force transmitted to the head, whether from a direct blow or body impact that jolts the brain.

MYTH: Helmets prevent concussions

FACT: While helmets protect against skull fractures and severe brain injuries, there is limited scientific evidence that any helmet significantly reduces concussion risk. Virginia Tech's Helmet Lab research explicitly states: No helmet is concussion-proof.

MYTH: You have to be hit directly on the head

FACT: Any force to the body that transmits to the head can cause a concussion. According to the CDC, a concussion is caused by "a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or by a hit to the body that causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth". Examples include whiplash from a hard tackle, a collision that jolts your entire body, or even a fall that doesn't directly impact your head but shakes your brain within your skull.

MYTH: Concussions only affect professional athletes.

FACT: High school athletes, weekend rugby players, and even young children in recreational sports are all at significant risk. Data from 2017 shows that across grades 9-12, only 83-88% of students reported having zero concussions from sports, meaning 12-17% high school students experienced at least one sports-related concussion. Moreover, in children athletes of 6-14 years, youth tackle football has 15 times more head impacts than in flag football, highlighting risks even in youth sports.

Source (Note: Some data on this site derived from public opinion surveys, including October 2022 survey data.)

MYTH: All concussion symptoms appear immediately

FACT: Symptoms can develop hours or even days after the initial injury. The CDC explicitly states that "some mild TBI and concussion symptoms may appear right away, while others may not appear for hours or days after the injury. Research from the University of Queensland explains that for mild concussions that don't involve being knocked out, symptoms may not seem obvious until days later. This delayed onset is why it's crucial to monitor athletes closely after any suspected head trauma, even if they seem fine initially.

On this National Concussion Awareness Day, let’s protect our athletes by spreading facts, not myths. Because every brain deserves a fighting chance.

At Power of Patients, we’re building a future where survivors and caregivers have the tools to track symptoms, connect with experts, and advocate for their care.

Want to dive deeper? Check out our post from last year’s National Concussion Awareness Day