Concussion is a brain injury which is usually caused by hitting your head or a fall. It can happen at any time, anywhere – for example, during sports, in the school playground, or even at home. Concussion must always be taken seriously. It is really important to be able to recognise the signs and know how to respond.

What are the signs?

Recognising the signs of concussion and removing young people from the activity they are involved in can save lives.

If you or someone else has been hit on the head, you need to look for signs like:

• a headache
• feeling dazed or confused
• feeling drowsy or sleepy
• feeling sick
• feeling irritable or ‘in a fog’
• difficulty remembering things
• any other change in normal behaviour

What should I do if I or someone I know has a suspected concussion?

If you have hit your head or you think someone else has suffered a concussion you should:

• stop playing or whatever you are doing
• report it to a teacher, parent, coach, referee, or umpire immediately
• be honest about how you are feeling or what you have seen
• if someone has been knocked out or seems to be getting worse, phone for an ambulance

Anyone with a suspected concussion should be immediately removed from their activity and should not be allowed to return until they are medically assessed.

This information is reproduced from the Department of Education website.  Click here to download the  DE leaflet containing information on recognising concussion.  Tá leagan Gaeilge den bhileog eolais anseo.