Can a concussion lead to mental illness?

A concussion may result from a steep fall, a blow, or some kind of injury to the head. It is possible for this type of head injury in Illinois to exacerbate the symptoms of a fragile mental condition. There are certain signs to look for when considering whether or not a concussion has worsened a mental illness.

When a head injury leads to mental illness

A concussion is a sudden trauma to the head that results in unconsciousness, dizziness, or other symptoms. It is a form of traumatic brain injury that may worsen the state of your mental health. If you had an existing mental illness before the accident, you may notice the symptoms worsening afterward, such as increased intensity or frequency of periods of depression, anxiety, or mood swings.

The complexity of mental illness

After receiving a concussion, it should not be automatically assumed that a personal injury is the direct cause of your worsening mental state. A psychiatrist or neurologist needs to perform a mental evaluation and determine the severity of the symptoms first and form a diagnosis. There could be a range of other factors that worsen a mental illness, from increased levels of stress to living in a hostile environment.

When more research is needed

A concussion may cause a person to lose consciousness, “see stars” or suddenly feel too dizzy to stand. These temporary symptoms often disappear after a few days, but in some cases, an injury could worsen to long-lasting symptoms of depression, anxiety, or moodiness. A mental health professional is qualified to handle a case of mental illness that is linked to a concussion. There are medical treatments and techniques available to assist people in overcoming a head injury or mental illness.