After experiencing a concussion, your life is impacted in many more ways than just the physical recovery process. Here are the most common ways that a concussion can affect your life.
Depression
Depression is very common for people to experience after a concussion or other traumatic brain injury. In fact, approximately 50% of people with a traumatic brain injury will experience depression within a year of sustaining the injury. It is important to keep an eye on your mood after a concussion and seek help if you are experiencing symptoms of clinical depression.
Moodiness
You may find that, after incurring a concussion, you have to spend more energy actively working on regulating your mood. Irritability and mood swings are common occurrences in those with a concussion.
Inability to Work Like You Used to
A concussion may impact your career in many different ways. You may need to take time off from work for a period of time while your injury heals, you may need to restructure the type of work that you do (with less screen time or more breaks, for example), or you may even find yourself in a position where you have to change careers altogether in order to accommodate your concussion.
Difficulty Focusing
Whether it is work-related or a hobby you used to find relaxing, you may find focusing on things that used to be easy has become very difficult.
Insomnia
Sleep problems are common in those who have suffered a traumatic brain injury like a concussion. Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, avoiding screens before bed, and integrating a calming nighttime routine can all help to manage insomnia.
How to Cope
Dealing with the aftermath of a concussion can be overwhelming and leave you feeling helpless. However, if you find yourself experiencing any of the above issues, the best thing that you can do is seek help and you will get through this difficult period. This help may be in the form of emotional support from loved ones, counseling from a professional, and medication or other therapies as prescribed by a doctor.
You may be eligible for compensation in order to help pay for the support that you need in order to cope with the effects of your concussion. Talk to one of our lawyers today to find out more.