If you suffer a mood/anxiety concussion, excessive worrying may seem to take over your life, among other symptoms. Learn more about this disorienting type of concussion and treatment options.
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Mood and Anxiety Concussion Symptoms
You may be experiencing this type of concussion if you are:
- Having a hard time turning off your thoughts
- Ruminating excessively
- Suffering from extreme worry or concern and this is interfering with your life
- Experiencing unusual sleep patterns due to the above issues delaying your ability to fall asleep
Family History of Anxiety
If you have primary anxiety symptoms, your family history and your personal medical history should be considered. There may be an underlying issue that can increase anxiety after a concussion.
Highly functional individuals suffer the most.
Though not an absolute, the more highly functional an individual typically is, the more likely they are to be the most anxious. They’re used to performing at a high level, so the symptoms caused by having a concussion affect them more.
Severe Anxiety Can Lead to Panic Attacks
When you suffer a concussion, you just don’t feel like yourself. Some patients worry that this is their “new normal” and they’ll never feel better again. This makes them anxious and can cause panic attacks.
Treatment Options
Exertion therapy may be useful. Following a prescribed exercise plan on a daily basis may help to stabilize mood, improve quality of sleep, and decrease overall anxious thoughts.
A behavioral health therapist may also help if you are struggling with family, school, or work duties.
About Sports Medicine
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