A concussion can feel alarming.  Whether you’ve experienced one yourself or are caring for a loved one.  The sudden onset of symptoms, the uncertainty about how long recovery will take, and the fear of long-term consequences can create a lot of stress.  

But, the good news is that most concussions resolve without lasting effects.  By understanding what a concussion is, what recovery looks like, and where to find support, you can approach the process with more confidence and less anxiety.

What is a concussion?

A concussion is a type of mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) that occurs when the head experiences a sudden blow or jolt. This impact causes the brain to move rapidly back and forth inside the skull. While it doesn’t typically cause permanent structural damage, the movement can temporarily alter brain function and blood flow.

Common causes include:

• Car or bicycle crashes
• Falls
• Sports-related impacts
• Assaults or other physical injuries

It’s worth noting that concussions are not limited to athletes.  Anyone can experience one after a sudden impact. In most cases, concussions heal fully with proper care, but it’s important to take recovery seriously to avoid complications.

Common symptoms of concussion

Concussion symptoms can vary from person to person. Some appear immediately, while others develop hours later. Typical signs include:

• Headaches
• Fatigue and lack of energy
• Dizziness or balance problems
• Nausea
• Trouble concentrating or memory lapses
• Blurred or double vision
• Sensitivity to light or noise
• Mood changes such as irritability or anxiety
• Difficulty sleeping or changes in sleep patterns

Concussion symptoms are temporary and part of the brain’s healing process.  Like the soreness you feel when recovering from a physical injury: they’re uncomfortable, but not usually a sign of permanent damage.

The recovery process after a concussion

Most concussion symptoms resolve within a few days to weeks, though some people may take longer. Here’s what recovery often looks like:

• Initial rest (first 24–48 hours): After the injury, rest is essential.  Physical and mental downtime helps your brain begin to heal.  This doesn’t mean staying in bed all day but rather avoiding strenuous activity, screen time, or anything that significantly strains your brain.
  
  
• Gradual return to activity: Unlike older advice that recommended complete rest until symptoms disappear, newer research suggests that light activity, (e.g. short walks or gentle mental tasks) can speed recovery. After a couple of days, you can begin gradually reintroducing work, school, or exercise, as long as symptoms don’t worsen.
  
  
• Ongoing improvement: Most people return to normal function within a few weeks. For some, especially older adults or those with prior brain injuries, recovery may take longer. If symptoms persist for several months, a healthcare professional may recommend specific therapies or accommodations at work or school.

Managing symptoms at home

Recovering from a concussion often requires patience and self-awareness. Here are some strategies to make the process smoother:

1. Pace yourself: You may feel ready to jump back into your usual routine, but pushing too hard can set you back. If your symptoms worsen after an activity, it’s a sign to slow down.
   
   
2. Prioritise rest: Short naps, quiet breaks, and good sleep hygiene go a long way toward recovery.
   
   
3. Stay hydrated and eat well: Proper nutrition supports healing. Avoid excess caffeine or alcohol, which can worsen symptoms.
   
   
4. Limit stress: Stress, anxiety, and pain can mimic or worsen concussion symptoms. Practicing relaxation techniques—such as deep breathing, meditation, or gentle stretching—can help.
   
   
5. Communicate: Let family, friends, teachers, or coworkers know what you’re experiencing. Small accommodations, like reducing screen time or adjusting your workload, can make recovery easier.

Remember: needing extra time to heal is normal. Just like you wouldn’t play a sport with a pulled muscle, you shouldn’t overexert your brain immediately after a concussion.

When to seek medical advice

While most concussions resolve without complications, it’s important to check in with a doctor if:

• Symptoms suddenly get worse after initial improvement
• You develop new symptoms such as vomiting, severe headaches, or vision changes
• You experience prolonged confusion or memory loss
• You’ve had multiple concussions in a short period of time

Children and athletes often require a doctor’s clearance before returning to sports or physical activity. This ensures that the brain has had enough time to recover fully.

Emotional and social impact

Concussions don’t just affect a person physically—they can impact emotions and relationships as well. Feeling irritable, anxious, or frustrated is common, especially if symptoms interfere with work, school, or family responsibilities. Some people feel isolated when they can’t participate in usual activities.

During this time, support is key. Friends and family can help by offering patience and understanding, while healthcare providers can guide recovery strategies. Talking openly about your symptoms can also reduce frustration and stress.

How Active+ helps with concussion recovery

Our Concussion Service provides specialist support for children, young people, and adults. The focus is on early intervention, helping people return to their everyday lives as quickly as possible, with family and whānau encouraged to be involved.

The service begins with an initial assessment, followed by a personalised rehabilitation plan. Depending on your needs, this may include physiotherapy, occupational therapy, medical input, nursing care, or psychological support.

Best of all, the service is fully funded by ACC, so there are no costs to you once your claim is accepted.

Learn more about Active+ Concussion Services.