Getting support

Wellbeing services

After a concussion or brain injury, certain areas of wellbeing may need more attention. Research shows that looking after all the areas of wellbeing positively impacts brain health, recovery and neuroplasticity.

On this page

Te Whare Tapa Whā

The Māori model Te Whare Tapa Whā describes wellbeing as a wharenui (meeting house), with each wall representing one of the four dimensions of holistic wellbeing.

Te Whare Tapa Whā, Mason Durie, 1984

Mental and emotional wellbeing

Changes in mood or mental health can occur after a concussion or brain injury. It is important to ask for help.

General Practice/Medical Centre

Your GP is often the best first step. Many practices now have:

  • Health Improvement Practitioners (HIP)
  • Health Coaches
  • Awhi Ora Support Workers

These professionals offer free wellbeing support for both physical and mental health and can connect you with local services for extra help including low-cost counselling.

Check which practices provide these services at The Auckland Wellbeing Collaborative

Counselling

Counselling services

Free Helplines
If you need someone to talk to — especially in a difficult moment — trained counsellors are available anytime, day or night:

  • Need to Talk? Call or text 1737
  • Lifeline: 0800 543 354 or text HELP to 4357
  • Samaritans: 0800 726 666
  • Youthline: 0800 376 633 or free text 234

All helplines are available here: https://mentalhealth.org.nz/helplines

You don’t have to wait until things feel overwhelming. These services are here simply to listen and support.

Addiction services

Brain injury may increase the risk of addiction and heighten sensitivity to alcohol and drugs. Support is available through specialised organisations.

Alcoholics Anonymous

CADS Auckland (Community Alcohol & Drug Services)

  • Call 0800 845 1818 or fill in this enquiry form
  • Alcohol & Drug Helpline: 0800 787 797 or text 8681 (24/7)
  • Find more information about CADS here

CADS offers a culturally appropriate counselling and group programmes: Te Atea Marino (Māori service), Tupu (Pacific service), Asian Service (for Asian communities).

Auckland City Mission

Salvation Army Bridge

  • Residential and community addiction programmes across Auckland

Fill in this enquiry form

Gambling services

If gambling is beginning to cause stress or harm, help is available through the following services.

Problem Gambling Foundation of New Zealand

  • Free counselling, advice, and support for individuals and families
  • Call 0800 664 262, text 5819, or register for free counselling

Gambling helplines

  • General Gambling Helpline: 0800 654 655
  • Māori Gambling Helpline: 0800 654 656
  • Pasifika Gambling Helpline (Vai Lelei): 0800 654 657
  • Youth Gambling Helpline (“In Ya Face”): 0800 654 659
  • Gambling Debt Helpline: 0800 654 658
  • Free text: 8006 or chat online

Mental Wellbeing Resources

Love Your Brain
Offers free holistic health programs and trainings for people with brain injury and their caregivers. Their programs and trainings include mindfulness, yoga, psychoeducation, nutrition, and community-building to transform healing.

Just a Thought
Offers free online therapy courses to give you the skills to help get your wellbeing back on track.

Hearts and Minds
Offer a variety of courses throughout the year that help support mental wellbeing. 18+ only.

Sparx
A digital tool to help NZ youth repair their mental and emotional wellbeing.

Social wellbeing

Social connection is proven to positively impact all aspects of wellbeing including brain health. There are many ways to connect with others through community groups and activities.

Citizens Advice Bureau
Their Search our Community Directory has an extensive list of local clubs, organisations and activities to get involved in.

Gardens4Health | Diabetes Foundation Aotearoa
Find local community gardens where you can volunteer, learn, and meet new people.

Local libraries
Check out the local library as many run activities and groups, creating a space for community connection. See locations here

Headway community endorsed activities
Headway provides training and education to community groups and activities so that they can be inclusive and welcoming to people with concussion and brain injury. Ask our navigators about groups near you.

Physical wellbeing

Physical exercise has been proven to significantly help recovery after concussion or brain injury. Moving your body is a great way to support long term brain health.

Green Prescription
A Green Prescription (GRx) supports you to be more active and make healthy lifestyle changes in a way that fits your abilities and goals.
Through this free programme, you can get:

  • Personalised advice on physical activity and nutrition
  • Discounted access to council gyms and leisure centres
  • One-on-one support to help you stay motivated

You can be referred by your GP, nurse, or Health Improvement Practitioner (HIP).
 Or, if you live in Central, East, or South Auckland, you can refer yourself.
Call 0800 ACTIVE (22 84 83) to learn more or sign up.

Strength and Balance Classes
Community Strength and Balance classes — including tai chi — are available for older adults or anyone living with physical challenges after an injury.
These group sessions focus on:

  • Improving balance, coordination, and stability
  • Building strength and confidence in movement
  • Reducing the risk of falls

Classes are available across Auckland.  See locations here

How we can help

Wellbeing can be affected after a concussion or brain injury and there are many services that can support you in your recovery. You can search for more options on Healthpoint or get in contact for personalised advice.