Kids Battling Mental Health Issues Have Tougher Time Recovering From Concussion
New study reveals that children facing mental health issues have a more challenging recovery process after suffering from a concussion.
Children with mental health problems have a harder time recovering from concussions.
We all know that kids can be a handful sometimes. Between their energy levels, their curious minds, and their constant need for attention, it can be exhausting just trying to keep up. But what if I told you that there’s another factor that can make things even more challenging for kids? According to a recent study, kids who are already battling mental health issues have a tougher time recovering from a concussion.
Now, I know what you’re thinking. “Concussions? Mental health? What do these two things have in common?” Well, it turns out that they’re more connected than you might think. This study, which was published in the journal Sports Health, found that kids with mental health diagnoses tend to have more emotional symptoms after a concussion and take longer to fully recover. In fact, the more mental health diagnoses a child had, the worse their emotional symptoms and the longer their recovery time. Talk about a double whammy!
Dr. Matthew Grady, a pediatric sports medicine specialist at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, emphasized the importance of considering a child’s preexisting mental health status when it comes to concussion recovery. He said, “While research has emphasized the negative mental health effects that persist after a concussion and how they can impact development and recovery, it’s also very important to consider the burden these children and adolescents face prior to their injuries, and how their preexisting mental health status can impact recovery.”
Concussions are a common childhood injury, with about 2 million sports- and recreation-related concussions occurring each year in the United States. These mild traumatic brain injuries can cause a variety of problems with brain function, emotions, sleep, and vision. And as it turns out, a child’s physical health isn’t the only thing that can influence their symptoms and recovery time. Mental health plays a significant role as well.
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So, what does this mean for parents, coaches, and healthcare providers? It means that when treating young patients with concussions, it’s crucial to take their mental health challenges into consideration. Doctors should make sure that boys are being screened and treated for mental health concerns as much as girls, so the potential effects of a future concussion are more fully understood.
Now, I know this might all sound a bit overwhelming, but don’t worry. There are steps you can take to support your child’s mental health and help them recover from a concussion. First and foremost, make sure to seek medical attention if you suspect your child has a concussion. Rest and relaxation are also key components of the recovery process. And finally, don’t be afraid to reach out for support. Whether it’s from healthcare professionals, support groups, or friends and family, having a strong support system can make all the difference.
Q&A
Q: What are some common emotional symptoms that kids with mental health diagnoses experience after a concussion?
A: Kids with mental health diagnoses may experience emotional symptoms such as irritability, sadness, and nervousness after a concussion. These symptoms can be more pronounced and longer-lasting compared to children without mental health issues.
Q: Are boys at a higher risk of experiencing emotional turmoil after a concussion compared to girls?
A: Surprisingly, boys with prolonged recovery after a concussion tend to experience more emotional turmoil than girls. This finding is interesting considering that girls are more likely to have mental health diagnoses and experience more concussion symptoms overall. It highlights the importance of screening and treating mental health concerns in both boys and girls.
Q: How can parents support their child’s mental health and concussion recovery?
A: Parents can support their child’s mental health by seeking medical attention if a concussion is suspected, ensuring their child gets enough rest and relaxation during the recovery period, and creating a strong support system involving healthcare professionals, support groups, and friends and family.
Q: Are there any long-term effects of a concussion on a child’s mental health?
A: Long-term effects of a concussion on mental health are still being studied. While some children may fully recover from both the physical and mental effects of a concussion, others may experience lingering mental health symptoms. It’s essential to monitor and seek appropriate care if concerns persist.
To learn more about youth concussions, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides valuable information on their website. [LINK]
References:
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Thompson, D. (2024, March 7). Kids Battling Mental Health Issues Have Tougher Time Recovering From Concussion. Retrieved [INSERT DATE], from [INSERT LINK]
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