Prevalence and risk factors for depression, anxiety and suicidal ideation in youth with persistent post-concussive symptoms (PPCS). (10th November 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Chrisman, Sara P. D.; Whelan, Bridget M; Zatzick, Douglas F; Hilt, Robert J; Wang, Jin; Marcynyszyn, Lyscha A; Rivara, Frederick P; McCarty, Carolyn A
• Is Part Of: Brain injury. Volume 35:Number 12/13(2021)
• Page Start: 1637
• Page End: 1644
• Publication Date: 2021-11-10
• Subjects: Concussion -- depression -- anxiety -- suicide -- mental health -- sleep -- adolescence; Brain damage -- Periodicals; Brain -- Wounds and injuries -- Periodicals; Brain Injuries -- Periodicals; 617.481
• DOI: 10.1080/02699052.2021.2008490
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0269-9052

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Objectives: To assess the prevalence and risk factors for emotional distress in youth with persistent post-concussive symptoms (PPCS) greater than one month. Methods: We used baseline data from an intervention study for youth with PPCS, utilizing Poisson regression to examine factors associated with exceeding clinical cut-points on measures of depression, anxiety, self-harm and suicidal ideation. Predictors included: age, sex, socioeconomic status, mental health history, duration of concussion symptoms, history of prior concussion, trauma history and sleep quality. Results: The sample included 200 youth with PPCS, (mean 14.7 SD 1.7 years, 82% white, 62% female). Forty percent reported clinically significant depressive symptoms, 25% anxiety, 14% thoughts of self-harm and 8% thoughts of suicide. History of depression was associated with 3-fold higher risk for thoughts of self-harm (95% CI:1.82–6.99) and 6-fold higher risk for suicidal ideation (95% CI:1.74–24.46). Better sleep quality was associated with lower risk for all outcomes. History of prior concussion and duration of PPCS were not significantly associated with any outcomes. Conclusions: Suicidal thoughts are common post-concussion, and history of depression is a strong risk factor. Tailored interventions may be needed to address mental health in this population.