Mental health and concussion

There is a potential link between mental illness and concussion. Athletes with a history of mental illness should discuss this with a doctor. Where there is a history of mental illness, a more cautious assessment and a more conservative management approach should be taken.

There are a number of organisations with information on mental illness and where to go for help:

• Lifeline provides a 24 hour, 365 days per year crisis support and suicide prevention service. It is free and provides immediate support for those in need.
• Headspace is a national youth mental health support service providing mental health assistance to those aged 12–25.
• Beyond Blue is an organisation aimed at improving community mental health education and awareness through several programs.