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The Link Between Psychiatric Disorders and Traumatic Brain Injury

There is a strong link between psychiatric disorders and traumatic brain injury. Victims of TBI can develop ongoing psychiatric disorders and mental illnesses such as depression, memory loss, chronic traumatic encephalopathy, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Our Stockton, CA, law firm represents TBI survivors who have developed mental disorders following their injury. Let McKinley, Conger, Jolley & Galarneau, LLP evaluate your case to determine whether you can pursue a lawsuit for your injury against a negligent party. We will treat you with the compassion you deserve so that you can recover as fully as possible.

TBI and Psychiatric Conditions: An Overview

In a 2013 study, scientists linked head trauma to the risk of developing certain psychiatric disorders. Notably, people with TBI were 59 percent more likely to develop depression and 28 percent more likely to develop bipolar disorder. Numerous other studies have linked TBI with other mental disorders, as well.

Major Depressive Order

Though one of the more common mental health conditions tied to TBI, many patients do not realize when depression is affecting them. It can interfere with your ability to carry out routine tasks and go about your daily life. Depression can cause a loss of pleasure in otherwise enjoyable activities, difficulty concentrating, feelings of worthlessness, and changes in sleep. While many people develop depression independent of physical injury, a TBI can significantly increase your risk. 

Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE)

Sports fans may be familiar with Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy or CTE. This condition is often seen in individuals who have suffered repeated impacts to the head, as many football players have. Symptoms vary considerably but may include depression, paranoia, impulse control problems, poor memory, and trouble thinking. These symptoms usually do not surface until years after the injuries but can noticeably worsen over time. In some cases, survivors may develop dementia. 

Personality Changes

The brain is comprised of a network of cells and neurons that shape a person’s personality. Consequently, you may be a different person in a lot of ways after suffering a traumatic brain injury. TBI has been known to cause personality changes such as:

  • Apathy: Diminished motivation, concern, interest, or enthusiasm
  • Emotional instability: Sudden emotional and behavioral changes
  • Aggression: Anger, irritability, and agitation
  • Poor impulse control: Impulsive behavior and hyperactivity
  • Paranoia: Suspicion of others, jealousy, and fear of persecution

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

After a TBI, some individuals develop post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD. Common symptoms of PTSD include bad dreams, frightening thoughts, and flashbacks. Flashbacks, in particular, can cause stress at any time during the day, as victims relive their trauma repeatedly, which may manifest in physical symptoms such as sweating and a racing heartbeat. This may cause the victim to stay away from certain places, objects, or events that remind them of their TBI. Survivors will generally do what they can to avoid thinking about the incident.

Coping with the Effects of a TBI

TBI victims are especially vulnerable because they are at a heightened risk of psychiatric disorders. At McKinley, Conger, Jolley & Galarneau, LLP, we want you to heal and to live a fulfilling life. We also want to provide legal guidance to you when you need it most. Our personal injury attorneys can look at your case and explain your rights. If your case warrants legal action, we will outline a plan to ensure an optimal outcome.

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