Residents of the Manning and Great Lakes area have the opportunity to attend a free seminar about recovering after a mild brain injury (more commonly known as concussion), as part of Hunter New England Health’s activities during Brain Injury Awareness Week (17-23 September)

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics approximately 1 in 50 people will at some point experience a brain injury. Brain injuries can be sustained in a number of ways, such as in an accident, or from an infection, brain tumour, shortage of oxygen or stroke.

Occupational therapist with Hunter New England Health’s Brain Injury Service in Taree, Alicia Harris, said having a mild brain injury does not necessarily mean the person will have ‘mild’ problems.

"Even mild injuries can leave long term problems, particularly if the injury is not thoroughly checked out by a doctor," she said.

"The level of access to social and educational supports can have a significant impact on how somebody recovers following a hit to the head. Patients can still experience residual symptoms weeks and sometimes even months following their concussion.

"The Brain Injury Service at Taree and Newcastle, specifically aims to assist working age people to regain their independence following their brain injury. We can offer advice on issues such as returning to driving, work or school, adjusting to change, socialisation and community access," Alicia said.

The Brain Injury Service covers an expansive area including Upper and Lower Hunter, Central Coast, Manning, Gloucester and Great Lakes districts.

The free Brain Injury Seminar will be held on Tuesday 18 September 2007 at 2pm at the Taree Community Health Centre, 64 Pulteney Street. However she said if there is enough interest from the Great Lakes district, a repeat seminar may be possible.

Alicia said anyone is welcome to attend. She said there will be information relevant to people who have been affected by a brain injury and their carers, as well as community based service providers who deal with people who may have sustained a mild brain injury.

She said this may include Refuge workers, Drug and Alcohol services, Aboriginal health, school staff, coaches (in particular contact sports), pony clubs and the like.

Topics to be covered include brain anatomy, symptoms of concussion, concussion management and post-head injury symptoms and management.

To register your interest or for enquiries regarding brain injury in general, please contact Alicia on 6592 9645.