When Worlds Collide: Understanding Complex Mental Health Needs in Brain Injured and Catastrophically Injured Clients

Overview

This training day explores the intersection of brain injury and mental health, with a focus on the additional complexities that arise in risk management, crisis response, and support planning. Designed for professionals working in the field of catastrophic injury, the session will equip attendees with practical tools and confidence in addressing difficult but essential topics, including the use of recreational substances, self-harm, and suicide risk.

Key Themes

1. Brain Injury and Mental Health: A Complex Relationship

• How brain injury may influence mental health risks and coping strategies
• The role of impulsivity, executive dysfunction, and emotional regulation in risk-taking behaviours

2. Recreational Substances: Risks, Realities, and Responses

• Understanding substance use in brain injury—why traditional approaches may not apply
• The impact of different substances on cognition, mood, and behaviour
• Practical strategies for harm reduction and non-judgmental conversations

3. Self-Harm and Suicide: Managing Risk

• Risk assessment: Identifying vulnerabilities, impulsivity, and crisis triggers
• Safety planning: Creating effective, individualised risk management plans
• Approaching difficult conversations: How to ask about suicidal ideation with confidence and clarity
• Duty of care: When and how to escalate concerns appropriately

Who Should Attend?

This training is aimed at professionals working with catastrophically injured clients, including case managers, support workers, therapists, and clinicians. It will provide practical guidance for navigating complex cases while maintaining professional boundaries and providing person-centred support.