Helpful Heads

04/03/2025

On Thursday, March 20th, we invite whānau of those with traumatic brain injuries to meet and share resources. There will be a short education session covering the challenges of communication after a traumatic brain injury, followed by a chat over tea and coffee. All welcome!

RSVP by emailing Jane at: [email protected] or Katie at: [email protected]

Brought to you by the Brain Injury Association Canterbury and Helpful Heads Peer Support Service.

30/01/2025

Do you have questions about the impact that a TBI has on speech?

Here is a helpful short Q&A from Janet Brown about slurred speech after brain injury.

My 25 year-old son had a brain injury two years ago. He received speech therapy for slurred speech. We now can understand almost everything he says, but people who don’t know him think he is either drunk or mentally handicapped because of his speech. What can we do to help him?

23/01/2025

Here is some great information out of Craig Hospital, Colorado USA, who specialise in spinal cord injury and traumatic brain injury rehabilitation and research.

This article covers the impact a brain injury can have on communication, some key things to look out for, and some tips.

Here is some great information out of Craig Hospital, Colorado USA, who specialise in spinal cord injury and traumatic brain injury rehabilitation and research. This article covers the impact a brain injury can have on communication, some key things to look out for, and some tips.

01/10/2024

This article published by 1News highlights the importance of a safe and measured return to work after concussion – both for the economy as well as health.

While falls are currently the leading cause of concussions, motor vehicle accidents, assaults, and sports injuries are also common contributors. The Laura Fergusson Brain Injury Trust’s expert Interdisciplinary Concussion Team provides tailored rehabilitation for up to 100 people each month who have sustained a concussion.

“Our team understands how a mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) can impact a successful return to work and ensures that rehabilitation is tailored with employment in mind,” Says Katie Hodge, Service Development Manager. “Engaging with employers early on, the team will help prepare for a smooth transition back to the workplace.

The Helpful Heads Peer Support Service complements this work by offering support not only to individuals and their families dealing with concussion and more severe brain injuries but also to employers involved in the return-to-work process. This comprehensive approach ensures that all aspects of the person’s life are considered during recovery, promoting better outcomes and understanding for everyone involved.

If you’re interested in an education session for your organisation, please contact Katie Hodge at [email protected]

A study has found a mild brain injury or concussion could lead to losses of $25,000 within the first four years after injury.