Disinhibition

Physical	Communication	Cognitive	Behavioural / Emotional

A person with disinhibition is likely to do or say things without considering the consequences and impacts of their actions. Normally, we have a ‘filter’ which allows us to understand these potential consequences. Following brain injury a person may become disinhibited and may do and say things most of us would steer away from. For example they may blurt out what comes to mind, share private information, pass insulting comments, not following social rules such as swearing in front of others, being sexually disinhibited, and not being able to control other urges such as intake of alcohol.

This can be upsetting for family and friends and also a potential source of conflict with others which is potentially dangerous for the individual. It can be very difficult to control because of the persons lack of self-awareness. Most people can and do re-learn socially-appropriate ways of behaving, though some, may continue to make inappropriate remarks or be over-familiar.

"Case management for children and young people post acquired brain injury is 'pivotal' to successful outcomes and must be local"

Deborah Andrews; New Zealand

"When someone has a brain injury, early access to local, specialist rehabilitation is crucial to ensure the maximum recovery and make significant savings to the state in health costs"

Headway; United Kingdom

"Taking brain injured children home causes high stress for families. Disjointed services exacerbate family stress levels."

Deborah Andrews; New Zealand

"Different 'experts' involved in paediatric neuro-rehabilitation come from different organisational cultures which causes conflict and has a negative effect on the outcomes for the child."

Barbara O'Connell; Ireland

"Positive and coordinated neuro-rehab interventions for children and young people is proven to bring health improvements; improve independence; reduces the need for sheltered living; decreases vulnerability; decreases drop-out rates in schools; decreases youth offending"

Eric Hermans; Netherlands

"When different organisations assess different aspects of a child's neuro-rehabilitation needs, everyone looks at things from a different perspective and have conflicting priorities"

Cathy Jonson; Rehab without Walls; United Kingdom.

"There are problems with getting people into neuro-rehab. Those most in need are often those most excluded due to a lack of socio-economic resources."

Vicki Anderson; Australia

"We are impressed with the progress you have made with the individual we referred to you." Social Worker

"Often families don't have the financial capability to access services. We need to rethink how we deliver neuro-rehab services to children and young people"

Vicki Anderson; Australia

"Brain development is complex and prolonged. Brain plasticity is influenced by a range of factors. Plasticity provides a base for neuro-rehab therapies and treatment"

Professor Bryan Kolb; Canada

OUR MISSION: To work to remove inequalities for children & young people affected by acquired brain injury; and provide effective support to their families that makes a real difference to their lives.