Nearly half of Victorian male inmates live with undiagnosed acquired brain injuries (ABIs), often stemming from trauma, substance use, or accidents. Without early screening and support, these individuals face cycles of incarceration. Programs like Voices for Change and the podcast All Been Inside are amplifying lived experiences and advocating for systemic reform.
As a recreational therapist who’s worked with ABI clients, I’ve seen how early support changes lives. Michael’s story shows how diagnosis and the right programs break cycles.
What struck me about this article, is that 33 per cent of female inmates tested also had an ABI. Let’s push for more awareness and rehabilitation, not just punishment.