Confusion and memory loss, personality changes, and the onset of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxiety are some of the most common mental health issues after suffering a traumatic brain injury (TBI). In addition, people who experienced a moderate to severe TBI have a 56% chance of developing depression due to the damaged brain tissue.
The rates of depression increase with subsequent brain injuries, but even one incidence of severe blunt force head trauma is enough to trigger the onset of depression. If you suffered head trauma in a negligence-based accident and have since been diagnosed with major depressive disorder, you may be eligible for a large settlement. Our California traumatic brain injury lawyer can help you understand your rights after an injury.
Risks of depression after traumatic brain injury
After a TBI, a common type of brain injury, it’s critical to understand the risks of developing depression and the symptoms, so you can seek treatment early on and get the best chance of recovery.
Adults who have no history of depression and are otherwise healthy have about a 10% higher risk of developing depression immediately following a head injury; the risk increases to 40% at the one-year mark.
People who have a history of major depression prior to suffering a TBI, but who were not depressed at the time of the injury have a 20% risk of depression immediately following the injury (the acute phase); their risk of developing depression in the year following the injury increases to 60%, while those who were depressed at the time of the injury have a 70% chance of developing a major depressive episode at the one-year mark.
Those with a history of TBI also have a much higher risk of developing depression, and the risk increases with subsequent brain injuries.
Children and adolescents with a history of depression have a 31% increased risk of suicide attempt following a head injury. Proper treatment for depression following a head injury is essential, and monitoring by a professional who can diagnose depression and mitigate the risk of self-harm.
Seek the right treatment for depression
The American Academy of Neurology (AAN) recommends that anyone who is suspected of having a concussion should cease all strenuous and physical activity, including strenuous cognitive activity, until cleared to resume it by their physician.
Loss of consciousness often indicates damage to the brain tissue; if you suffered even just a few minutes of unconsciousness, it’s critical to have a medical evaluation to determine the extent of the damage and which parts of the brain were injured.
Talk to your doctor about any history of traumatic brain injuries, even mild concussions, as individuals with a history of TBI often respond differently to both behavioral and medication interventions; what’s effective for someone with no history of TBI could be dangerous for someone who has suffered repeated blows to the head.
A concussion isn’t a static injury event; neuroplasticity means that healing is more of a “cascade,” rather than a linear healing like you’d see with a broken bone. Someone with a brain injury may see healing in more of a “two steps forward, one step back” manner, which is why it’s critical to have a doctor monitor your recovery.
Your rights to compensation for mental health damages
Depression affects every aspect of your quality of life. If you suffered a TBI due to someone else’s negligence, you may be eligible for substantial compensation for damages. An attorney can help you get the money you need for high-quality medical care.
We can help you get the compensation you deserve after a negligence-caused TBI. Call Ernst Law Group today at (805) 541-0300 or contact us online for a free consultation.