Concussion Discussion

Head injuries are a big concern in youth sports, especially for athletes participating in contact sports during critical periods of brain development. Even a seemingly minor bump to the head can result in significant neuropsychiatric symptoms over time.

What is a head injury?

A head injury is trauma to the scalp, skull, or brain. One of the most common types is a concussion. A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head, or by a hit to the body that causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth, per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This movement can cause chemical changes in the brain and sometimes damage brain cells. 

How do you get a head injury in sports?

Concussions can happen when an athlete falls, collides with another player, is hit by equipment, or takes a blow to the head or upper body. Sports like football, soccer, ice hockey, and basketball are frequent settings for these injuries. Any physical activity with risk of impact can be dangerous.

Mental health symptoms following a concussion are common and can happen immediately or weeks later. They can include: 

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Irritability
• Mood swings
• Difficulty concentrating
• Sleep disturbances
• Emotional dysregulation

For some, especially those with a prior psychiatric history, these symptoms may persist—meaning a person’s clinical team should get involved. 

Physical complaints after a concussion may include any combination of:

• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Sensitivity to light or sound
• Blurred vision
• Nausea

Can you prevent head injuries in sports?

For those inclined to play, risk of head injury can be reduced by proper equipment and education. Helmets, coaching on safe sporting techniques, rule enforcement, and a team culture that prioritizes health over performance are all essential. Athletes, families, and coaches should also be aware of and responsive to any signs of mental health changes after a hit to the head.

What do athletes need to know about recovering from head injuries? 

Addressing all symptoms after a concussion is important in recovery. Athletes should follow a concussion protocol, which typically includes physical and cognitive rest, gradual return to activity, and medical clearance before resuming full participation. Ignoring symptoms or rushing back to play increases the risk of prolonging symptoms and further injury. Preventing further head injuries is important! 

At Sheppard Pratt, we take a holistic approach to head injury. We provide a neuropsychiatric evaluation with a focus on mood, behavior, sleep, and cognition after the injury. We offer specialized therapies and collaborate with other medical specialists to provided integrated, whole-person rehabilitation. When it comes to brain health, thorough, personalized care is key to recovery.