Blog
Co-occurrence of depression and concussion worsens symptoms in collegiate athletes
A study highlights that the co-occurrence of concussion and depression is “associated with significantly worse symptoms for both conditions.” Despite overlapping symptoms, these conditions are often treated independently, overlooking their additive effects.
Meditation techniques associated with lower cortisol levels for at-risk populations
A recent study suggests that different meditation interventions (particularly those focused on mindfulness) benefit individuals at risk for high cortisol levels––especially for those with a somatic (physical) illness.
Sleep problems, depression, are risk factors for lower quality-of-life scores after concussion
A study investigating health-related quality of life (HRQL) metrics and other psychological factors post-concussion in youth found that that psychological risk factors such as anxiety and depression negatively impact health-related quality of life in the initial 6-month phase of pediatric concussion.
MRI imaging and behavioral testing reveal emotional problems in female children post-concussion may be related to injury-caused delay in maturation of white matter
A study published in Biological Psychiatry
found that concussions may alter the trajectory of white matter maturation in female children and that this alteration may play a role in the onset of new depression and anxiety after concussion.
Compared to men, women have significantly greater risk of depression after concussion or TBI
According to a news release by the American Society of Anesthesiologists, women are significantly more likely to experience depression following a concussion or other traumatic brain injury (TBI) when compared to men.
Physical activity is as good or slightly better than medication and psychotherapy for managing mental health issues; high-intensity exercise is even better
An article highlighted the effectiveness and significant benefits of physical activity when utilized as an intervention for a range of mental health issues, specifically in managing symptoms of depression, anxiety, and psychological distress in adults.
Athletes with comorbid depression and anxiety and no recent concussion report more post-concussion symptoms than “healthy mood” athletes who are two weeks post-concussion
Scientists have found that athletes with baseline comorbid depression and anxiety reported more symptoms on the Post-Concussion Symptom Scale, without having a recent concussion, than the post-concussion athletes who had a healthy mood at baseline.
Study finds association between concussions and increased risk of suicidal behavior in U.S. high school students
U.S. high school students self-reporting ≥2 concussions were significantly more likely to report suicidal attempts, according to study.
Struggling with depression? Call for study participants–service members & veterans
Service members and veterans with a history of mild traumatic brain injury (including concussion) and struggling with symptoms of depression may want to participate in a clinical trial of a cognitive behavioral app designed specifically for the military community.
Children and adolescents with concussion at 40% higher risk for mental health issues than peers with orthopedic injury
A study found that children and adolescents who sustain a concussion are at an increased risk of developing mental health issues. The results indicated that "young people who sustain a concussion are at a 40% higher risk of mental health issues, psychiatric hospitalization, and self-harm compared to those who sustain an orthopedic injury."