Action for Brain Injury Week took place this month to shine a light on this hidden disability and to raise awareness of the often-misunderstood symptoms of brain injury.
The campaign for the week was called ‘See the hidden me’ and worked to give a voice to survivors so that people, from loved ones to professionals, can gain a better understanding of the battles those with a brain injury face every day.
It’s important that we all learn more about brain injuries so we can know the signs and create a more understanding society for survivors.
Types of brain injury
The main types of brain injury are acquired brain injury (ABI) and traumatic brain injury (TBI).
ABI is an injury caused to the brain since birth and causes can include a fall, tumour, stroke or road traffic accident.
TBI is an injury to the brain caused by a trauma to the head. Possible causes can include assaults, falls, accidents and road traffic accidents. Factors such as the type and severity of the injury can impact the length of its effects.
Effects of brain injury
The more serious the brain injury, the more severe the long-term effects will be.
Even a minor head injury can cause a concussion, which while for many people will clear up, can sometimes lead to months or years of problems for others.
Survivors of severe brain injury must navigate long-term and complicated problems, which affect all aspects of their lives from their personality to their relationships.
While different for everyone, survivors of brain injury may experience several of the following issues:
- Behavioural changes
- Cognitive problems, such as issues with memory, speed of thought and understanding and concentration
- Communication problems
- Emotional changes
- Fatigue
- Hormonal imbalances
Do you or a loved one live with a brain injury? At Synergy Complex Care, we provide personalised care and support for adults and children living with brain injuries in their own homes.
If you or a loved one needs support, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team today.