May is Mental Health Awareness Month – a time to recognize the importance of prioritizing our mental health and acknowledging the impact that mental health challenges can have on a person. As May transitions into June, so too does the focus shift from Mental Health Awareness to Brain Injury Awareness. This presents the opportunity to explore the correlation between traumatic brain injuries and mental health challenges.
The Connection Between Traumatic Brain Injuries and Mental Health Challenges
Studies show that over 65% of adults with concussions experienced depression and anxiety after the injury and that 21% continue to experience mental health symptoms six months later. Many people experiencing mental challenges may be unaware that that a previous head injury could a contributing factor. Common mental health conditions associated with head injuries include:
• Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Anxiety
• Panic attacks
• Depression
Do Men and Women Experience Brain Injuries Differently?
While both men and women experience traumatic brain injuries, there are gender-specific patterns/trends in their causes and responses to treatment., Men are more likely to sustain brain injuries as a result of workplace accidents or motor vehicle incidents, and concerns about returning to work may prevent them from seeking care. For women, domestic violence is a leading cause of traumatic brain injuries. These injuries are often unreported or untreated due to fear, shame, stigmatization, or risk of further violence.
Domestic Violence and Brain Injuries
Domestic violence often occurs in private, and the signs may be subtle or hidden even from close friends. Similarly, brain injuries are also often invisible, with the individual experiencing long term symptoms and challenges without any outward signs. Research indicates that up to 92% of incidents of physical domestic violence involve strangulation or injury to the head, face, or neck, highlighting a strong connection between domestic violence and traumatic brain injuries.