In this guide:
An acquired brain injury (ABI) is caused by damage to the brain that happens after birth, such as a blow to the head or a stroke. Because the effects of ABI are incredibly diverse, there are many different strategies to treat and manage them.
According to Brainlink, 30% of people who sustain a brain injury will be left with a significant and permanent disability. This can redefine a person’s world, making treatment and management strategies crucial for readjusting to everyday life.
What can cause an acquired brain injury?
ABI can occur in anyone, from infants to older people. Causes of an acquired brain injury include:
- Sudden jolts to the head or blunt force trauma, such as concussions, car accidents, falls, assaults, and sports injuries. These are called traumatic brain injuries (TBI).
- Lack of oxygen to the brain, for example, from near drowning, drug overdose or cardiac arrest
- Brain tumours and brain cancer
- Strokes
- Infections such as meningitis and encephalitis
- Alcohol‑related brain injury (ARBI) and other drug‑related injuries
- Degenerative conditions like dementia and
- Parkinson’s
- Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) from alcohol exposure in the womb.
What are the symptoms of ABI?
Symptoms of ABI can range from short-term disruptions to lifelong effects. Some of the early symptoms include:
- Loss of consciousness
- Dizziness, nausea or vomiting
- Headaches and migraines
- Confusion or memory issues
- Difficulty with coordination and balance
- Vision changes
- Seizures.
Head injuries should always be taken seriously, even if they seem minor. If someone loses consciousness, has a fit or seizure, or shows any of the symptoms above after a head injury, call an ambulance (000) immediately.
How is ABI treated?
Treatment for an ABI depends on the type of injury and its level of severity.
Concussion, the most common form of traumatic brain injury (TBI), can often be managed with rest, extra sleep and pain‑relief medication. However, it is important to continue monitoring for persistent, worsening or new symptoms. In some cases, a CT scan of the brain or neck may be required.
More severe injuries often need urgent medical care to stabilise the person. This may involve ensuring the brain has enough oxygen and blood supply, maintaining blood pressure, preventing further harm to the head or neck, and treating other injuries or infections.
Surgery
According to Synapse Australia, about half of all severe brain injuries require surgery. Emergency surgery may be needed to help protect the brain from further damage, by:
- Removing clotted blood (hematomas)
- Repairing skull fractures or removing pieces of skull from the brain
- Stopping any bleeding in the brain
- Relieving pressure inside the skull, such as by draining fluid or creating a window to make room for swelling.
Medications
Medications may also be prescribed by your doctor to help address ongoing medical conditions and concerns.
How are the long-term effects of ABI managed?
Managing the effects of ABI doesn’t end once immediate medical treatment is complete. Recovery is often a lifelong process, supported by daily strategies, therapies and strong networks of care.
Long-term lifestyle strategies
Putting routines and structures into place can have a big impact on ABI recovery. These could include:
- Daily routines to help with memory, fatigue, emotional regulation and motivation.
- Family involvement and education that supports smoother transitions after rehab and helps manage emotional and behavioural changes.
- Maintaining friendships and social connections, including community activities, to reduce isolation and build independence.
- Ongoing brain health strategies, such as brain exercises, a nutrient-rich diet, an active lifestyle and avoiding alcohol and other drugs.
Task-specific therapies and support
Practical strategies to target specific issues or challenges can make a real difference day-to-day. For example:
- Memory and organisation tools such as diaries, alarms and checklists reduce stress and support independence.
- Neuropsychologists can help with strategies for memory, attention, problem‑solving and emotional regulation.
- Speech and communication therapy helps with speech or language challenges, as well as eating and swallowing support if needed.
- Physiotherapy can help to rebuild strength, balance and coordination, while occupational therapy offers strategies and adaptive equipment to make everyday tasks easier and safer.
Find resources on facing everyday ABI challenges on Brainlink, or read helpful recovery tips on Synapse Australia.
How Mable can help
Independent support workers on Mable are here to help people manage the ongoing effects of ABI and keep their independence, offering help with:
- Personal care and daily routines, with reminders and support to reduce stress and fatigue.
- Allied health services, including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech pathology, plus support to carry out therapy strategies at home.
- Practical help around the house, such as assistance with meal preparation, cleaning, and transport to and from appointments.
- Social connection and community participation, encouraging safe activities, hobbies and volunteering opportunities.
- Carer respite, giving family members a chance to rest and focus on their own wellbeing while knowing their loved one is supported.
Learn more about the services you can find on Mable.
With the right strategies, therapies and supports in place, many people with ABI are able to adapt, regain confidence and lead fulfilling lives.
Frequently asked questions
Can a person recover from an ABI?
Recovery looks different for everyone. Some people regain many of their skills and abilities, while others continue to face long-term challenges. Much depends on the type of injury. For example, after a concussion (mild traumatic brain injury), many people fully recover within days. Other injuries, including some severe concussions, can cause life‑changing effects.
How long does recovery take after an ABI?
There's no set timeline. Some people notice improvements quickly or within the first few months, while others continue progressing for years. Recovery is often a lifelong journey supported by ongoing strategies, therapies and strong relationships.
Is an ABI considered a disability?
In Australia, ABI is commonly recognised as a disability, particularly when it affects daily activities or participation. It is also referred to as a cause of disability. However, it is important to note that ABI is not the same as a mental illness or an intellectual disability.
When should you seek urgent help after a head injury?
It's recommended that you call an ambulance (000) straight away if someone loses consciousness, repeatedly vomits, has a seizure, experiences worsening headaches, increasing confusion, weakness on one side of the body, or difficulty waking up.
If it's not an emergency but you are still unsure, the HeadCheck app can help identify signs of a concussion.
The information provided in this article is general information only and based on current information at the date of publication. In addition to considering the information shared in this article, Mable encourages you to conduct your own research and seek independent advice about managing life with an acquired brain injury.