Concussions and depression: What you need to know:

*Athletes who suffered from depression before a concussion are at higher risk after the injury. Because of this, you should have a discussion right away with your athlete, and the athlete’s doctor, about getting ahead of the curve, so to speak. They are more prone to fall in to a deep depression after getting hit.

*Concussions cause a temporary change in how the brain will work, so you may see, or experience, unusual behaviors. This is normal after a head injury, but should certainly be brought to the attention of a doctor if your athlete starts experiencing fear, anxiety and other signs of depression.

*While most people will recover from symptoms of a concussion in a few weeks, 20% or more take longer. Just because they’re ‘supposed’ to be better, doesn’t mean they are; and if they’re a teenager, they may try and hide their feelings. It’s very important to check in with them over the months following a concussion.

*Pay attention to warning signs, even if your athlete is a teenager who has never suffered from depression before. Don’t write it off as adolescence. It’s very important that they speak to a doctor and get treatment before the symptoms get worse. 

Depression, via a concussion, or another mean, is a serious medical issue. Losing interest in friends, studies, hobbies, sleeping a lot, not participating, not eating, making poor decisions, lashing out – all signs of depression. Please be aware! 

ConcussedTeen.Org is YOUR website.  We want to hear from you so we can work together to educate people so teenage athletes are protected.  Email submissions@concussedteen.org with your story