Can Concussions Cause Depression?

The physical injury – and pain – is real, but the emotional impact of a head injury is often overlooked.

“There are often emotional symptoms from acute concussion – irritability, anxiety, etc. If there is a past history of anxiety, depression or PTSD, this is more likely to happen,” says Stephanie Alessi-LaRosa, MD, director of the Sports Neurology Program in Hartford HealthCare’s Ayer Neuroscience Institute.

People diagnosed with concussion or mild traumatic brain injury also have double the risk of suicide and a higher risk of suicide attempts and thoughts.

Here’swhat you need to know about the link between concussions and depression, according to Dr. Alessi-LaRosa.