As March is the month of Brain Injury Awareness, we thank Rosie Buckley, a freelance writer who has produced this article for us to help raise awareness about brain injuries and how to provide support to those affected. Thank you Rosie!
Navigating Brain Injury: Facts, Challenges, and Ways to Support Loved Ones this March
Every March, people around the world observe Brain Injury Awareness Month. It
highlights the realities of life after a brain injury, including the physical, cognitive, and
emotional challenges faced by survivors. Whether caused by an accident, fall or other
medical events, brain injury can have lasting effects that aren’t always visible. This
month also focuses on educating the public about prevention, early diagnosis, and
treatment. It aims to reduce stigma too, promoting understanding and hope.
Every year, around 200,000 individuals are admitted to the hospital with a head injury,
and around 40,000 of these have evidence of a traumatic brain injury. Knowing the facts
can reduce stigma, shed light on the challenges faced, and ensure loved ones can
provide the best support.
What Is a Brain Injury?
A brain injury refers to damage to the brain that impairs its normal functioning. This can
result from external forces, like a blow to the head or from internal medical conditions,
like a stroke. The impact varies greatly from person to person, depending on the
severity and location of the injury, and can affect memory, mood, movement, senses,
and day‑to‑day thinking.
Common Symptoms to Watch For
Brain injuries can affect individuals in different ways. Some symptoms may be apparent
straightaway, while others occur over time. The severity of symptoms depends on how
severe the brain injury is, but common challenges include:
● Cognitive changes: Memory problems, difficulty thinking clearly and
concentrating, confusion, and trouble problem-solving are common following a
brain injury.
● Communication issues: Someone with a brain injury may struggle to
understand or express language.
● Emotional and behavioural shifts: Changes in mood, personality, or behaviour
may occur following a brain injury. Some people experience mood swings,
feeling anxious or depressed and irritability.
● Physical effects: These can include headaches, nausea or vomiting, dizziness,
changes in sleep (more or less than usual), and fatigue. More severe physical
symptoms can include coordination problems, seizures, and coma.
These symptoms can fluctuate day by day, and what may seem like a small challenge
to someone else can be exhausting for the person living with the injury.
Debunking Misconceptions
Brain injuries are often misunderstood. Here are a few common misconceptions and the
truths behind them:
“If they look fine, they must be fine.”
Brain injury symptoms are often invisible to others. Someone may seem okay while still
struggling with memory, fatigue, or emotional regulation.
“Recovery is linear.”
Progress isn’t always steady. Good days can be followed by more difficult ones, and
setbacks don’t mean failure; they’re often part of the healing process.
“They just need to try harder.”
Brain injury is not a lack of effort. It affects the physical and chemical functions of the
brain, and recovery requires patience, rehabilitation, and sometimes long‑term
adaptation.
Understanding these truths helps reduce frustration and improve communication and
connection.
Staying Positive Through the Journey
Maintaining hope doesn’t mean ignoring difficulties, but it does mean finding purpose in
small victories.
● Celebrate incremental progress, such as remembering an appointment or
completing a task.
● Help individuals build confidence and resilience.
● Encourage motivation in rehabilitation sessions, such as physical or speech
therapy.
Surrounding yourself or your loved one with hopeful, encouraging support can make
recovery feel less daunting.
How Family and Friends Can Support
Support from loved ones can help those who have experienced a brain injury feel less
alone. Helpful strategies include:
- Learn About Brain Injury
Carrying out research and using reputable websites to learn more allows family and
friends to provide the best support possible. - Make a Predictable Routine
Adjusting to life after a brain injury can feel unpredictable, but having a clear routine
provides structure. - Communicate Thoughtfully
Ensure the environment is free of distractions, speak clearly and use simple language,
and give them time to process information. Avoid asking too many questions at once or
overwhelming them with information. - Let Them Explain How They Feel
Giving your loved one emotional support can stop them from feeling isolated. Let them
talk without offering solutions unless they ask, and validate their emotions.
Taking Care of Yourself Too
Supporting someone with a brain injury can be emotionally demanding, and caregivers
should also look after their own well-being. This can prevent burnout and ensure they
can provide the best care possible. Some examples of how this can be done include:
● Getting enough sleep
● Eating a balanced diet and drinking enough water
● Setting boundaries
● Practicing mindfulness
● Staying active
● Taking breaks where possible. (Respite care or help from professional care
services can give a carer more time to look after themselves)
How You Can Get Involved This March
Raising awareness helps society become more supportive and understanding.
You can do this by:
● Sharing helpful information and stories on social media to spread awareness.
Use hashtags related to brain injury awareness to help your posts gain traction
● Participating in events organised by local charities and support groups
● Volunteering or donating to organisations
● Wearing green
Conclusion
By learning the facts, recognising the challenges survivors face, and adapting our
communication, we can offer the best possible support. You don’t have to have all the
answers or be an expert. Simply being there to listen, learn and offer support will be a
big help on their recovery journey.