Depression and concussions are two very serious dangers, but they are not typically thought to be related in many ways. One condition affects the mind and moods while the other is a serious physical trauma. However, a new link may have been discovered regarding the symptoms of patients who have experienced severe concussions in the past. Post-concussion syndrome has been debated for a long time, but only now are we seeing a real link between mental trauma and the physical trauma of the brain.
An interesting study has shown a similarity between the symptoms after a concussion and those of depression, according to Neuro Skills. The study showed that there are similarities shared by concussions and other mental conditions, such as anxiety and stress. Seventy-one students were examined in the test, all of which had a history of post-concussion related issues. They were given a test – known as the DASS, or Depression Anxiety Stress Scale – to determine whether any symptoms of depression, anxiety or stress were present. They were also asked to fill out the British Columbia Post concussion Symptom Inventory, or BC-PSI.
These studies found a connection between the symptoms of stress and depression and the symptoms of a post-concussion. These symptoms were initially related on a strictly bi-variate level, and the tests eventually revealed the possibility that stress could be one of the stronger indicators of post-concussive trauma. Anxiety did not seem to factor in as much as stress and depression, but such conditions can often spawn from one another.
The facts about post-concussion syndrome – or shell shock – have been speculated for a long time; however, this recent study has proven the link between traumatic brain injuries and stress. Other symptoms have been linked with post-concussion syndrome, such as fatigue and even poor judgment. However, the anxiety and fatigue may be mere symptoms of but one PCS symptom – stress.
Stress has a severe impact on the body and the mind. This study has brought the medical and scientific worlds closer to understanding post-concussion syndrome. Many medical experts have debated whether certain symptoms were exaggerated by patients in the past. With stress being an almost certain result of post-concussion syndrome, we may then understand how other symptoms could possible arise.