Concussion Awareness Week 2026

Concussion Awareness Week is being recognized across Canada this year from September 27 to October 3, 2026. This annual campaign raises awareness and encourages everyone to work together to prevent, recognize, and properly manage concussions in sports, recreation, school, work, and everyday life.

Concussions are a serious injury that can affect anyone. Recognizing signs early and proper management are key to recovery.

This year, the Government of the Northwest Territories encourages all residents to make concussion safety part of everyday practice.

Create a culture of safety

Whether you are a coach, teacher, parent, official, athlete, employer, or recreation leader, talk openly about concussion prevention and recovery. Encouraging honest conversations reduces stigma and helps people feel comfortable reporting symptoms.

Know the signs and take action

Concussion symptoms can appear immediately or hours after an injury. Common symptoms may include headaches, dizziness, nausea, confusion, sensitivity to light or noise, memory problems, fatigue, or changes in mood and behaviour. If you suspect a concussion, seek medical attention and follow the advice of a healthcare provider.

Support recovery

Recovery looks different for everyone. Students may need accommodations at school, workers may require modified duties, and athletes may need a gradual return to sport. Patience and support are important parts of the healing process.

Learn and share

Take time this week to review concussion resources, participate in training opportunities, and share information with your team, school, workplace, or community organization. Small actions can make a big difference in preventing injuries and improving outcomes.

Get involved

• Share concussion awareness messages using #ConcussionEd and #HeadstrongCanada.
• Encourage coaches and sport leaders to complete concussion education and training.
• Talk with youth about the importance of reporting symptoms.
• Review your organization's concussion policies and emergency action plans.
• Promote safe sport and safe recreation practices in your community.

Additional information and resources

• Concussion: Symptoms and Treatment(external link)
• Concussions: Sport and Recreation(external link)
• Canadian Guideline on Concussion in Sport(external link)
• Concussion in Sport Resources (SIRC)(external link)
• Healthy Canadians Podcast: Getting a-head of Concussions(external link)
• Sport North Federation(external link)

By working together to increase awareness, encourage early recognition, and support safe recovery, we can help create healthier, safer communities across the Northwest Territories.

For media requests, please contact:
Peter Tah
Manager, Public Affairs and Communications
Department of Municipal and Community Affairs
Government of the Northwest Territories
[email protected]
867-767-9162 ext. 21012