(HealthDay News) — Pregnant people with a history of concussion have an increased risk for severe maternal mental illness after delivery, according to a study published online Nov. 4 in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry.
Samantha Krueger, from the University of Toronto, and colleagues conducted a population-based cohort study of individuals with a singleton livebirth between 2007 and 2017 followed up to 2021 to examine the association between predelivery history of concussion and risk for severe maternal mental illness. The primary outcome of severe maternal mental illness was defined as a psychiatric emergency department visit, psychiatric hospital admission, or self-harm or suicide, assessed for 14 years after delivery.
Data were included for 18,064 individuals with a history of concussion and 736,689 without. The researchers found that the risk for severe maternal mental illness was increased for those with a history of concussion versus those without (14.7 versus 7.9 per 1,000 person-years; adjusted hazard ratio, 1.25). The association was strongest among individuals with no history of mental illness (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.33).
“These clinical considerations could address the association between predelivery history of concussion and severe maternal mental illness and potentially decrease the incidence of these important outcomes,” the authors write.
How do concussions contribute to mental illness?
Concussions, often dismissed as minor head injuries, can have significant and lasting impacts on mental health. These traumatic brain injuries disrupt the delicate balance of neurotransmitters and brain circuits, leading to a range of psychological and emotional difficulties.
Depression
One of the most common mental health consequences of concussions is depression. Individuals who have suffered a concussion may experience persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and worthlessness. They may withdraw from social activities, lose interest in hobbies, and struggle with changes in appetite and sleep patterns. These symptoms can significantly impair their quality of life and ability to function.
Anxiety
Anxiety is another prevalent mental health issue associated with concussions. Concussion survivors may develop heightened fear, worry, and nervousness. They may experience panic attacks, difficulty concentrating, and persistent feelings of unease. These anxious symptoms can interfere with daily activities, relationships, and overall well-being.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a serious mental health condition that can develop after a traumatic event, including a concussion. Individuals with PTSD may relive the traumatic experience through flashbacks and nightmares. They may also experience hypervigilance, avoidance of triggers, and difficulty sleeping. These symptoms can be debilitating and significantly impact a person’s ability to cope and function.
Pre-existing Mental Health Conditions
Concussions can also exacerbate or trigger pre-existing mental health conditions. Individuals with a history of depression, anxiety, or PTSD may find their symptoms worsen after a concussion. The brain injury can disrupt the delicate balance of neurotransmitters and brain circuits, making it more difficult to manage these conditions.
Concussion impact on children
The impact of concussions on mental health is not limited to adults. Children and adolescents who experience concussions are also at risk of developing mental health problems. These young individuals may struggle with mood swings, irritability, and difficulty focusing in school. Early identification and treatment of mental health issues in concussion survivors is crucial to prevent long-term consequences.
Concussions and pregnant women
Pregnant women who suffer a concussion face additional risks to their mental health. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can already impact mood and emotions. A concussion can exacerbate these changes, leading to increased anxiety, depression, and difficulty coping with the stresses of pregnancy and motherhood. Additionally, a concussion during pregnancy may increase the risk of preterm birth and other adverse pregnancy outcomes.
It is important to recognize that not all individuals who experience a concussion will develop mental health problems. Early intervention and treatment can significantly improve outcomes and help individuals recover from both the physical and mental effects of a concussion.
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