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School and Concussions

Recovering from a concussion can mean sitting out sports or gym class for a while. But a concussion also can affect a student's school performance because it's a type of brain injury.

How Can a Concussion Affect Me at School?

All injured body parts take time to heal, even brains. After a concussion, you need physical and mental rest. Doing schoolwork and being in a classroom can make the symptoms  of a concussion worse. This means the brain takes longer to heal, so you might not do as well on tests or be able to return to sports as fast as you would if you'd taken time off to rest.

These are all reasons why you'll want to follow your doctor's instructions about what to do — and what not to do — while you recover. If your doctor tells you to stay home and rest, do it.


  • You might be more tired than usual.
  • You may feel irritable, sad, or emotional.
  • You could have dizzy spells or headaches.
  • You might have difficulty with your coordination and balance.
  • You may have trouble learning new concepts or remembering what you've learned.


Many teens who get concussions usually recover within 1-2 weeks, but others may take longer. But what if you have an important test or essay during that time?

What Should I Tell My Teachers?

Now that there's more awareness about concussions, most teachers know about the healing process and what students need to do.

If you have a concussion and you've been cleared by a doctor to go to school, tell your teachers about your injury. That way they'll understand any difficulties you might have in the classroom as you get back to your normal self. Ask your teachers to work with you to lighten your workload or reschedule tests.



Tips for Dealing With a Concussion at School

The main thing you want to do is avoid injuring your head again. Another head injury when you already have a concussion can lead to a condition called second-impact syndrome. Although very rare, second impact syndrome can cause lasting brain damage and even death. So you'll want to avoid sports or rough play on the school grounds or in gym class.

To help you focus better and keep any problems under control while you're at school, try these tips:

  • Sit where you can focus. Choose a desk near the front of the classroom or in a spot where you're less likely to be distracted.

Reviewed by: Nicole M. Marcantuono, MD
Date Reviewed: 01-05-2017

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