Important Notice Headway House is permanently closed. This is now a private residence. Services are delivered from community centres across Auckland – local support in your local community. Peer Support Groups resume from 3rd February. The Headway team is available for community contact from 13th January.

What is concussion?

A concussion is the most common type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) in Aotearoa, with around 36,000 cases each year.

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) resulting from a bump, blow, or jolt to the head, or from a hit to the body that causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth.  Rapid movement causes brain tissue to change shape, which can stretch and damage brain cells.

Additionally, it triggers chemical and metabolic changes within the brain cells, making it harder for them to function and communicate effectively. Given that the brain serves as the body’s control centre, the effects of a concussion can be widespread.

It is important to take a concussion seriously. With the right response and treatment, most people will recover fully from a concussion. Ignoring the signs and symptoms of a concussion or failing to seek appropriate treatment can however lead can lead to prolonged/ongoing symptoms.

While concussions are typically not life-threatening, their impact can be significant, and the injury should always be taken seriously.