Wednesday, September 12, 2012

Concussion Testing

This morning at breakfast, I told my youngest son, Carson, that I had a concussion test scheduled for him this afternoon.  He looked up from his strawberry smoothie with terror in his eyes and blurted out, "Why do I need a concussion test!".

When I realized I had startled him, I quickly explained that the travel football team he's on suggests that all team players have a concussion test taken before the season begins.

It's an initial benchmark test that is done in a video game style so kids actually enjoy taking it. Plus, it gauges accuracy and awareness of each player.

If a player is injured during the season and a concussion is suspected, the test is taken over and results are compared by the doctor. It's a great way of determining whether a concussion actually occurred.

Carson lightened up and went back to sipping on his smoothie, once I explained all the details and he know there was nothing to worry about.

It did make me wonder why people, in general, are hesitant when it comes to taking tests. I know I don't like them! Especially when it comes to medical test like getting blood work done and waiting on the results.

I think we are hesitant of taking tests for two reasons:

1. We're afraid of the unknown.

When I have my annual physical and blood work done, I have to wait 2 days for the test results. During the waiting process, thoughts pop into my head like "what if my cholesterol is high" or "what if they tell me I have cancer".   

I have to quickly defuse these thoughts and trust that everything will be okay. But, in all honesty, I can get caught up easily in worrying about the unknown. 

2. We are afraid of failing or experiencing failure. 

Can i let you in on a little secret? I totally stress out over my tests for Bible college.  I study like a crazy person, hoping to get a perfect score because the thought of getting a not-so-good grade or failing the test, sends me into a tizzy.

The amazing thing is that once I actually settle down and take the test, I realize it isn't so bad after all.

What about you?

Do you like taking tests?

If not, why?

What is your biggest concern or worry about getting test results?

If you have so test taking tips, I'd love for you to share them on my blog today.

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