'Concussion' Movie to be Released in December

By Amy Clay, WS/FCS School Psychologist


As a school psychologist who has recently been certified by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction to conduct evaluations with students who have experienced significant brain injuries, I have been following the developments of the movie 'Concussion' for several months now.  The movie stars Will Smith as forensic pathologist Dr. Bennet Omalu, who uncovered the fatal effects that repeated head injuries have had on many NFL players - and on athletes from other sports, as well.

http://www.athleticbusiness.com/media-technology/quot-concussion-quot-movie-generates-buzz-raises-awareness.html

Dr. Omalu identified the first case of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy, commonly referred to as CTE, which refers to a degeneration of brain tissue and the accumulation of Tau protein in the brain.  Individuals with CTE may show symptoms of dementia, such as memory loss, aggression, confusion and depression, and these symptoms may appear years or even decades after the trauma(s) occurred.  The CDC reports that current prevalence rates for CTE are unknown, as the definitive diagnosis of CTE can only occur by examining brain tissue after death.

Recent media coverage for the movie 'Concussion' has focused on the NFL's response to the movie.  It has been alleged by some media outlets that Sony Pictures Entertainment negotiated with the NFL to "soften" the portrayal of the NFL's initial response to Dr. Omalu.  FRONTLINE's investigation, entitled "League of Denial" chronicles the history of the NFL's stance of concussions.  They also maintain a "Concussion Tracker," collecting data on the number of concussions experienced by players in the NFL.  In early November, that number was already at 83 - and this is just for the NFL, not including other leagues and other sports.  You can find more information here:

http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/league-of-denial/

Regardless of how you may feel about the NFL and its response to player concussions, the movie has already generated one positive effect: raising awareness.  Parents who want to learn more about concussions can find a wealth of information at the CDC's "Heads Up" website below:

http://www.cdc.gov/headsup/

If you are a student - or the parent of a student - experiencing difficulties with behavior or academics that you think may be related to significant head injuries (sports-related or not), please do not hesitate to contact your School Psychologist.  We are here to help

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