ABI Awareness Week Begins 💙 Understanding isolation after brain injury

Good morning,

Today marks the beginning of Action for Brain Injury Week 2026 – a time to raise awareness of acquired brain injury and the impact it can have on individuals and families across Sussex.

This year’s theme is “Isolation After Brain Injury.”

For many people, brain injury changes far more than physical health. It can affect relationships, confidence, communication, emotions, and the ability to take part in everyday life. Many people living with acquired brain injury describe feeling isolated, misunderstood, or disconnected from the world around them.

An acquired brain injury (ABI) can happen suddenly through:

💙 Stroke
💙 Falls or accidents
💙 Brain haemorrhage
💙 Infection or illness
💙 Lack of oxygen to the brain

The effects are often life-changing and can include memory difficulties, fatigue, anxiety, sensory overload, and challenges with communication or concentration.

At Headway Sussex, we see first-hand how isolation can affect people after brain injury. That is why connection, support, and community are at the heart of what we do.

Through support groups, our hubs, practical support, and safe spaces to connect with others who understand, we help people rebuild confidence and feel less alone.

Throughout ABI Awareness Week, we’ll be sharing stories, experiences, and insights to help shine a light on the hidden reality of isolation after brain injury.

Thank you for helping us raise awareness and support people living with ABI across Sussex 💙

Best Wishes

The Headway Sussex Team