In this guide:
Returning to work after a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) can feel like standing at the base of a mountain you used to climb with ease. The view is familiar, but the path forward is different.
Every brain injury recovery is unique. For some, returning to work happens swiftly. For others, it’s a gradual process involving rehabilitation, support networks and trial-and-error.
This guide walks through the challenges, strategies and available supports that can help you (or someone you support) find purpose and independence at work again.
Key takeaways on returning to work after a brain injury
- Returning to work after traumatic brain injury is achievable with tailored, person-first support.
- Recovery looks different for everyone – some people return quickly, while others take months or years.
- Fatigue, memory difficulties and anxiety are common challenges when working with brain injury.
- Strategies like phased re-entry, employer communication and routine building can help boost your success.
- Support workers help with transport, daily structure, emotional encouragement and work adjustments.
- NDIS funding categories may cover personal care, skill building and job-readiness support, subject to your eligibility.
How brain injury can affect employment readiness
Can people go back to work after a brain injury? Yes, but the path varies. A mild TBI might allow a quick return with small adjustments, while a severe injury may call for longer-term planning and rehabilitation.
Symptoms aren’t always visible and they may fluctuate from day to day. According to Synapse Australia, cognitive fatigue, emotional sensitivity and changes in concentration or processing speed can all affect readiness to return to work.
Families and employers often ask: “How do I support someone returning to work after TBI?”
The answer often lies in personalised, flexible support that balances structure and compassion.
Factors that influence return to work
- Severity of injury and length of rehabilitation
- Physical or cognitive symptoms (e.g. vision issues, headaches, memory loss)
- Type of work previously done (manual vs cognitive tasks)
- Age, existing health conditions and motivation to return.
What are some of the common challenges in returning to work after brain injury?
- Concentration and focus – noise, multitasking and screen time can overwhelm.
- Memory and communication – forgetting instructions or struggling with verbal expression.
- Fatigue and overstimulation – short stamina, especially in stimulating environments.
- Emotional wellbeing – anxiety, low confidence or fear of failure.
Strategies for a successful return to work after brain injury
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution. But with structure, support and patience, many people with brain injuries successfully rejoin the workforce or find new and meaningful ways to contribute.
Structured home programs and skill simulation
Before jumping back into work, practising everyday tasks at home may help rebuild confidence and stamina. Support workers or family members can help create low-pressure opportunities to rehearse skills and gradually increase activity levels.
- Rehearse tasks like typing, filing or time management at home
- Use timers or task checklists to rebuild cognitive endurance
- Gradually build up the hours you engage in structured activity.
Phased return to work approaches
Going back to work doesn’t have to be all or nothing. Many people find success by easing in slowly, starting small and adjusting as their capacity grows. A phased approach gives your brain and body time to adapt.
- Start with one or two short shifts a week
- Ask employers to modify duties to reduce cognitive load
- Slowly increase responsibility over time.
Accommodations and modifications
Workplace adjustments can make it easier to succeed on the job without exhausting your mental or physical energy. These small changes help level the playing field and support sustainable progress.
- Use written instructions, schedules and memory aids
- Request noise-cancelling headphones or access to a quiet workspace
- Ask for a later start time or more breaks to manage fatigue.
Communication with employers
Honest, respectful communication helps set everyone up for success. Letting your employer know what you need and what you’re capable of can lead to better support and a more inclusive working environment.
- Be open about limitations, goals and what helps
- Share any medical letters or occupational therapist recommendations
- Suggest a trial period or check-in schedule to assess progress.
Vocational rehabilitation and therapy
A team of health professionals can guide your return to work with expert insights and structured plans. Their support can help you find the right job fit, build stamina and adjust your work environment to suit your needs.
- Occupational therapists can help with job-readiness assessments.
- Physiotherapists may assist with stamina and ergonomic adjustments.
- Vocational specialists can help match you with suitable job opportunities.
For more on living well post-injury, see our guide on living with an acquired brain injury.
How support workers help brain injury survivors at work
Support workers aren’t therapists, but they often work alongside professionals delivering therapeutic supports – providing real-world assistance that helps bridge the gap between therapy sessions and everyday life.
Independent support workers on Mable may help to build consistency, confidence and independence through practical and personalised support.
Logistical support for work routines
Returning to work after a brain injury can be overwhelming, especially when juggling transport, appointments and daily planning. A support worker can help you stay organised and reduce the mental load, making it easier to focus on recovery and success at work.
- Help with transport to and from work or appointments.
- Support with morning routines, packing meals or organising the day.
- Reminders for therapy sessions, work meetings or medication.
Workplace preparation and adjustments
Everyone works differently after a brain injury and small changes can make a big difference. Support workers can help create a workspace that suits your needs and introduce tools to make tasks easier to remember and manage.
- Help set up workstations that reduce physical or mental strain
- Help create step-by-step guides or visual cues
- Use reminders, checklists or calendar prompts to aid memory.
Confidence and emotional encouragement
Going back to work isn’t just about tasks – it’s also about confidence. An independent support worker can offer emotional reassurance, help you manage social situations and remind you of how far you’ve come.
- Offer reassurance when navigating social interactions
- Be a calming presence during moments of overwhelm or doubt
- Help celebrate wins and reflect on progress.
Ongoing daily structure
Having structure before and after work helps prevent burnout and supports long-term progress. Support workers can help establish healthy routines and keep an eye out for signs of fatigue or overload.
- Support with pre-work routines (breakfast, planning, rest)
- Decompress together after work to prevent burnout
- Observe signs of fatigue and adjust plans as needed.
Can I get NDIS support for working after a traumatic brain injury?
If you are eligible, the NDIS can help fund supports that increase your capacity to work, volunteer or engage in community life.
- Core Supports help with personal care, meals or transport to work.
- Improved Daily Living includes occupational therapy, psychology or other capacity-building therapies.
- Increased Social & Community Participation can support you in exploring volunteer work, study or employment programs.
- Support Coordination helps you navigate the NDIS and connect with providers.
Learn more about disability support and explore your options with NDIS social and community participation.
Frequently asked questions
What types of jobs are suitable for someone with a brain injury?
It depends on your strengths, symptoms and goals. Jobs with consistent routines, lower stress or flexible hours often work well. Volunteering may be a helpful stepping stone.
What support helps with returning to work after brain injury?
Support workers, therapists and a flexible employer can all play a role. Independent support workers on Mable can help with routines, emotional encouragement, transport and job readiness.
How long does it take to return to work after a brain injury?
There is no standard timeline. Some people return within weeks, others need months or years. The focus should be on what's safe and sustainable for you.
How do I explain my brain injury to an employer?
Keep it simple and strengths based. Focus on what you can do, what support helps and how your work style might differ. You don't have to disclose full medical details - just what's relevant to your role.
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 medical advice relative to your circumstances. If you wish to use your NDIS funding on any of the services outlined above, Mable recommends that you check your NDIS Support Plan or speak with your Plan Manager to ensure that the appropriate services are coverable.