An acquired brain injury can happen to anyone at any time, and rarely are two people’s experiences the same. It’s why there’s such a variety of information out there – it needs to cover an awful lot.
Here’s what we think are the most ‘must know’ bits of information about acquired brain injury that will give you a good introduction. If you want to find out more, there are loads of brilliant articles over at the Headway UK website.
Brain injury myths, busted
MYTH: Brain injury only happens after an accident or blow to the head.
FACT: Traumatic brain injury is only one kind of acquired brain injury. An acquired brain injury (ABI) can also happen because of a stroke, brain haemorrhage, brain tumour, encephalitis, lack of oxygen and other conditions.
MYTH: If someone looks fine, they must have recovered.
FACT: Brain injury is often described as a hidden disability. Memory problems, fatigue, slower thinking, difficulty concentrating and changes in emotions or behaviour may have a major impact, even when there are no obvious physical signs.
MYTH: You’ve got to be knocked unconscious to have a concussion.
FACT: You do not have to lose consciousness. Headway reports that fewer than 10% of concussions involve loss of consciousness. Confusion, dizziness, forgetfulness and other symptoms can occur without somebody being ‘knocked out’.
MYTH: There’s a fixed point when recovery stops.
FACT: Every brain injury is different. Although the greatest visible improvement often happens earlier, people can continue to improve and regain skills for a number of years after brain injury. Some effects, however, may remain lifelong.
MYTH: Brain injury fatigue is just ordinary tiredness.
FACT: Fatigue after brain injury can be profound and debilitating. It may affect someone physically, mentally and emotionally and, unlike everyday tiredness, can sometimes remain despite sleep or rest.
MYTH: Everyone with a brain injury will have similar problems and need similar support.
FACT: No two experiences of brain injury are the same. The effects depend on all sorts of things, like the type, location and extent of the injury. It’s why support must be tailored to the person, rather than just based on a diagnosis.
MYTH: Brain injury only affects the person who sustained it.
FACT: Brain injury can have a profound impact on partners, families and carers, changing relationships, roles, work and social lives. Headway’s latest research also found high levels of loneliness and isolation among both survivors and carers. It’s just as important for carers, families and partners to reach out for help as well as the person with an acquired brain injury. You can apply for support at Headway Shropshire here.