There are more people living with brain injuries than the public realise. This invisible disability is therefore not really understood which can make survivors lives more difficult. Just as those with conditions such as dyslexia used to be labelled as stupid, until it’s existence was better recognised. Some survivors who are trying to lead a normal life are being mistaken for being drunk. This can result in them being asked to leave pubs/bars, or even being arrested. But whilst we wait for public understanding to catch up, there could be a simple solution…..

Why brain injury survivors are being mistaken for being drunk.

Staff in the hospitality sector have seen all too often the affects of intoxication. And they are left with the responsibility of trying to manage customers and stop serving them alcohol before it affects their behaviour too badly. Unfortunately, frequently this is without having the opportunity to get to know the individual. So mistakes happen. Even the police can make the same errors. There have been cases of brain injury survivors being arrested for being drunk and disorderly.

The problem is, as with other medical conditions, having a brain injury can mimic drunk behaviour.