Understanding brain injury
What is an acquired brain injury?
An acquired brain injury (ABI) is an injury to the brain that happens after birth. Every injury is different, and its effects can change how a person thinks, feels, communicates and manages everyday life.
Common causes
Brain injury can happen in many ways
ABI includes traumatic injuries, such as a fall or road collision, and non-traumatic injuries caused by illness or a medical event.
Traumatic injury
Falls, road traffic collisions, assaults, accidents at work or during sport.
Stroke and haemorrhage
A disruption to the brain’s blood supply can cause lasting physical and cognitive changes.
Illness and other causes
Tumours, infections, lack of oxygen and other neurological events can lead to ABI.
Possible effects
The impact is not always visible
Some changes appear immediately; others become clearer when a person returns home, to work or to familiar routines.
Physical
Fatigue, headaches, weakness, balance difficulties, seizures or changes to speech and movement.
Cognitive
Changes to memory, concentration, planning, processing information and problem solving.
Emotional and behavioural
Anxiety, low mood, irritability, impulsivity, loss of confidence or changes in personality.
Help makes a difference
You do not need to understand everything before contacting us. We can talk through what has changed and help identify the most useful next step.
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