Military & Veterans
Inform your patient that changes in emotions are common after a concussion/mTBI and that emotions usually return to normal with time.
Recommendations:
- Encourage your patient to discuss his thoughts and feelings.
- Refer your patient to a behavioral health provider for psychotherapy or counseling, and to a psychiatrist if medication may be beneficial.
- Don't overlook the possibility that the patient's caregiver may also need psychological support.
- Concussions are often associated with other psychological health problems, such as anxiety or depression, and the veteran or service member may require specific treatment for those issues. Also, pain disorders or substance use disorders are commonly reported with individuals who have been diagnosed with concussion/mTBI and should be explored to see if they are contributing to the emotional picture.