Haley Brain Wellness Program

Haley Brain Wellness Program Our mission is to provide barrier free comprehensive & transformative care to Veterans and First Responders.

Labor Day reminds us of the importance of rest, balance, and well-being, which are essential for both productivity and l...
09/07/2026

Labor Day reminds us of the importance of rest, balance, and well-being, which are essential for both productivity and long-term health. The UF Health Haley Brain Wellness Program will be closed today in observance of the Labor Day.

Whether you’re spending the day with family, enjoying the outdoors, or taking a much-deserved break — thank you for all that you do.

Veterans and first responders often carry unique burdens, which can increase the risk for mental health challenges and s...
09/03/2026

Veterans and first responders often carry unique burdens, which can increase the risk for mental health challenges and suicidal thoughts.

Through comprehensive care, clients and providers at the Haley Brain Wellness Program work together to relieve symptoms, build resilience, and restore quality of life. This month and every month, we honor the courage it takes to reach out. We want our community to know: you are valued, you matter, and you are not alone.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 for the Su***de & Crisis Lifeline. Veterans can press “1” after dialing to connect with the Veterans Crisis Line.

***dePreventionMonth

Sleep problems are common after traumatic brain injury (TBI), and can interact with  underlying conditions such as sleep...
08/31/2026

Sleep problems are common after traumatic brain injury (TBI), and can interact with underlying conditions such as sleep apnea. Recent studies suggest that obstructive sleep apnea may occur frequently in TBI populations, although more research is needed to understand exactly how the two conditions are related.

Quality sleep is important for attention, memory, mood, and overall functioning, areas that can already be affected after TBI. Understanding and addressing sleep problems is therefore an important part of comprehensive brain injury care. Our interdisciplinary care team provides a personalized assessment and offers recommendations to address the myriad of factors – stress, pain, medications, and more – that can affect our patients' sleep. Sleep is more than rest for your body— it's an important part of brain health.

With school back in session and football season around the corner (Go Gators!), it’s a good time to remember that concus...
08/27/2026

With school back in session and football season around the corner (Go Gators!), it’s a good time to remember that concussions can happen during sports, at work, at home, or anywhere else.

After a hit, fall, or other impact, watch for symptoms such as:
• Headache or dizziness
• Nausea or balance problems
• Blurred vision or sensitivity to light/noise
• Confusion or slowed thinking
• Unusual behavior

When in doubt, sit it out. Anyone with a suspected concussion should be removed from play or the activity and evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Knowing the signs can help protect the brain and support a safer recovery.

Nausea can occur for many reasons after a concussion or other brain injury. In the acute period, symptoms may be related...
08/24/2026

Nausea can occur for many reasons after a concussion or other brain injury. In the acute period, symptoms may be related to the injury itself, medications, dehydration, pain, or other factors. When nausea and dizziness persist, however, the vestibular system (the network involving the inner ear and brain that helps control balance and spatial awareness) may be one contributing factor.

So, if you guessed D, you're correct! Persistent nausea after traumatic brain injury (TBI) can have multiple possible causes. Understanding the different systems involved can help guide a more complete evaluation and targeted treatment.

What is “executive function” – and why does it matter in TBI? 🧠Executive function is a set of skills that helps your bra...
08/20/2026

What is “executive function” – and why does it matter in TBI? 🧠

Executive function is a set of skills that helps your brain manage everyday life.

It helps you plan, prioritize, make decisions, control impulses, and adjust when things don’t go as expected. You can think of it as the brain’s “project manager.”

In TBI, there may be disruption of the brain networks that support executive function. A person might know what they need to do, but have trouble figuring out where to start, what to do first, or how to follow through. For instance: You need to pay a bill, but you keep putting it off because getting started and organizing the steps feel overwhelming.

After TBI, difficulties with impulse control or decision-making can affect things like spending, driving, school or work performance, following a treatment plan, or managing substance use. These challenges may reflect changes in how the brain manages complex decisions.

So, can executive function improve after TBI?

Yes, with targeted cognitive therapy and effective use of strategies.

To learn more about the rehabilitation services offered at the Haley Brain Wellness Program for veterans and first responders dealing with brain injury, check out our website (https://ufhealthjax.org/brain-wellness/), or give us a call at (904) 244-3289.

A traumatic brain injury doesn’t just affect the person who experienced it. There is often a ripple effect impacting the...
08/17/2026

A traumatic brain injury doesn’t just affect the person who experienced it. There is often a ripple effect impacting the people closest to you.

Changes in mood, communication, memory, fatigue, irritability, impulse control, or emotional regulation can make relationships feel different after TBI. These changes can be confusing and even frustrating for everyone involved. Understanding that symptoms may be contributing to changes in behavior can help families and partners approach challenges with greater patience and communication.

Recovery includes relationships, too. At the Haley Brain Wellness Program, we understand that recovery includes relationships, too. Our team is equipped to provide education, communication strategies, and support for both individuals and families can help people adjust to life after brain injury while maintaining meaningful connections.

Why does the brain like routines?Routines allow the brain to automate everyday tasks, freeing up attention and working m...
08/13/2026

Why does the brain like routines?

Routines allow the brain to automate everyday tasks, freeing up attention and working memory for more complex thinking. This is especially helpful for individuals recovering from traumatic brain injury (TBI), who may experience cognitive fatigue more quickly.

Small, simple habits — like keeping a consistent morning routine or using the same place for your keys, medications, or planner — can help daily life feel more manageable. Remember, consistency beats intensity!

Today and every day, we love to celebrate all of our program alumni!Going through our three-week intensive program is no...
08/10/2026

Today and every day, we love to celebrate all of our program alumni!

Going through our three-week intensive program is no small feat, but our veterans and first responders get by with a little help from their fellow cohort members. Here's to friendships formed and those yet to come!

Whether you're a student, educator, veteran, or first responder balancing classes with work, planning ahead can reduce c...
08/06/2026

Whether you're a student, educator, veteran, or first responder balancing classes with work, planning ahead can reduce cognitive load and improve focus.

A few simple strategies can help this busy season feel less overwhelming:
📅 Use one calendar for appointments, assignments, and deadlines.
📝 Divide large projects into smaller, specific weekly goals.
⏰ Set reminders before — not at — the deadline.
🎒 Prepare what you need the night before to reduce morning stress.
😴 Schedule time for sleep and recovery just like any other important commitment.

Working smarter — not harder — helps you conserve time and energy for what matters most.

Address

1833 Boulevard POB, 3rd Floor
Jacksonville, FL
32206

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