After A Concussion, One-Third Of Children Develop A Mental Health Problem

After experiencing a concussion, about one-third of children developed mental health problems compared to healthy children or children who experienced other injuries such as a broken arm. About 36.7% of children who experienced a concussion developed internalizing mental health symptoms, such as withdrawing, anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder. Another 20% developed externalizing mental health symptoms, such as aggression, attention problems, and hyperactivity.

Among children who had a mental health diagnosis before the concussion, 29% received a new mental health diagnosis post-concussion. About 26% of children without prior mental health problems also developed mental health symptoms . . .