• A recent systematic review looked at the prevalence of psychiatric disorders such as anxiety and depressive disorders in patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI).
• They found a substantial number of patients had a history of anxiety disorders (19%) or depressive disorders (13%) prior to their TBI.
• In the first year after TBI, pooled prevalence of anxiety and depressive disorders increased to 21% and 17%.
• Prevalence continued to increase over time, with longterm prevalence of anxiety and depressive disorders of 36% and 43%.
• Females, those without employment, and those with a history of psychiatric disorders or substance abuse prior to TBI were at higher risk for anxiety or depressive disorders following TBI.

 

Bottom Line: 

• Early recognition and treatment of psychiatric disorders in patients after TBI may improve their outcome, psychosocial functioning and health-related quality of life. 
• Thus we should consider providing appropriate discharge instructions that include psychiatric resources for patients after TBI.

References

Scholten AC, Haagsma JA, Cnossen MC, et al. Prevalence and risk factors of anxiety and depressive disorders following traumatic brain injury: a systematic review. J Neurotrauma. 2016 Jan 5. [Epub ahead of print]

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