Returning to School After a Concussion in Teenagers – Tips

A concussion is a brain injury from a direct blow to the head or body that causes the brain to shake quickly back and forth inside the skull. This can damage brain cells and cause chemical changes in the brain.

Concussions cause temporary difficulty with certain brain functions involving speech, memory, balance, and coordination. After a concussion, you may have a headache, feel dizzy or nauseated, and have trouble thinking clearly and concentrating. You may also have problems remembering or learning new things. Concussions can have serious effects on a teen’s developing brain.

Most concussions heal in 1–2 weeks, although some may take longer. It is important to be patient during your recovery. Trying to do too much can make recovery take longer.

When can I return to school?

Your health care provider will tell you when it is safe to return to school. Generally, you can go back to school once your symptoms get better. While you are recovering, your teachers may need to make your workload less demanding. Work with your teachers, school nurse, and health care provider to figure out which classes may cause your symptoms to get worse. For example, classes with loud noises, such as band or shop class, may need to be avoided until you get better. Tell your teachers, your parents, or your health care provider if your symptoms get worse. As your symptoms improve, you can gradually return to your normal workload and school routine.

When can I return to physical education (PE)?

You should not do PE class, physical activity at recess, dance, or sports until your health care provider says you can. Once you are back in a normal school routine, you no longer have any symptoms, and you are not taking any medicines for your concussion, then you can start the gradual process of returning to PE, sports, and other activities.

What are some ways I can cope with recovery?

Rest is an important part of recovering from a concussion. This includes resting your body and your brain. It is important to cut back on the amount of time you spend doing activities that require your brain to problem-solve (cognitive exertion). Your health care provider may recommend cognitive rest, which means avoiding activities such as:

• Social media.
• Texting.
• Reading or writing.
• Studying or doing homework.
• Using a computer or phone.
• Watching television.

It can be hard to take a break from these activities, but your recovery will be faster if you allow your brain the time it needs to rest. Gradually return to your usual workload as your symptoms improve. You may need to take breaks whenever you feel very tired or have a headache.

How can I get support with my recovery?

Talk to your parents, your health care provider, or a school counselor. It is normal to feel angry, sad, frustrated, or nervous. As you heal, these symptoms should start to go away. Letting people know how you feel helps you get the support you need. For more support, talk to:

• Support groups.
• Adults at school, including the school nurse, your teachers, and the school counselor. They can work with your parents, your health care provider, and an educational specialist to make sure your school work and schedule are adjusted to your needs during recovery.

What symptoms are important to report to my health care provider?

Concussion symptoms may not appear right away. They could also get worse at any time. It is important to let your health care provider know if you have any new or worsening symptoms, such as:

• Drowsiness or fatigue.
• Headache.
• Memory loss.
• Confusion.
• Difficulty concentrating.
• Loss of consciousness.
• Problems with balance and coordination.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Weakness or numbness.
• Slurred speech.
• Seizures.
• Trouble recognizing faces or places.
• Inability to remember events before or after the injury.
• Irritability.
• Changes in sleep habits.
• Changes in personality.

Some health issues may make your recovery from a concussion take longer. Let your health care provider know if you have a developmental disorder, such as ADHD, a history of migraines, or a mental health disorder.

What questions should I ask my health care provider?

When you have a concussion, learning as much as you can about your injury can help to protect your long-term health. Ask your health care provider the following questions:

• When can I return to my normal school routine and other activities?
• Should I limit how much time I watch TV, play video games, or use a computer?
• Do I need more sleep than normal?
• Do I need medicine for a concussion?
• What are the potential long-term effects of my injury?
• Could I have problems with memory or learning?
• Should I consider not playing sports anymore?
• What should I tell my teachers or coaches about my injury?
• What should I do if my symptoms do not improve or get worse?
• What happens if I get another concussion?
• What are the warning signs of a concussion?
• Could I have a concussion without knowing it?
• How can I prevent another concussion?