Overview of Disorders of Consciousness - Body and Mind

The more you understand the parts and functions of the brain, how each can be affected after severe brain injury, and what treatments are available, the better equipped you will be to make informed decisions about your loved one’s physical and psychological care.

Digital graphic of a face looking up at a burst of colorful lines

What Are Disorders of Consciousness?

The term “disorder of consciousness” (DoC) describes a group of conditions that involve difficulty with awareness that includes coma, unresponsive wakefulness syndrome/vegetative state, and minimal conscious state.

A young black person in a coma lying in a hospital bed

Will My Loved One Regain Consciousness and What Should I Expect for My Loved One’s Recovery?

Information about regaining consciousness after a DoC like coma or unresponsive wakefulness syndrome/vegetative state

Nurse checks an IV bag while other doctors and nurses attend a patient in a coma

What Types of Treatments Can Facilitate Recovery in People with Disorders of Consciousness?

Treatments for disorders of consciousness like coma and unresponsive wakefulness syndrome/vegetative state

A neurologist uses a pen to point to an MRI on a computer monitor

What Part of the Brain Is Damaged in a Person with a Disorder of Consciousness?

Showing what part of the brain is damaged in a person with a disorder of consciousness

Nurse checks levels of equipment on a patient in a coma

What Assessment Tools Will Be Used to Determine My Loved One’s Level of Consciousness?

Assessment tools used to determine one’s level of consciousness after severe brain injury

Person holding a loved one's hand in hospital bed

How Do I Interact with My Loved One When They Have a DoC?

How to interact with loved ones in a coma, unresponsive wakefulness syndrome/vegetative state, or other disorder of consciousness.

A nurse helps an elderly woman into a wheelchair from a bed

How Can I Physically Help My Loved One Safely?

How to physically interact with loved ones in a coma, unresponsive wakefulness syndrome/vegetative state, or other disorder of consciousness.

Overview of Disorders of Consciousness Complications I Might See Taking Care of Myself Understanding Your Resources