The brain is an amazingly complex organ that controls breathing, senses, motor skills, memory and much more. Of course, it also controls how we think, feel and process information. That means it controls our emotions and our behavior.
When a person suffers a traumatic brain injury (TBI), they and their loved ones may be shocked and baffled by the effect of the injury on their mental health. Depending on what part of the brain suffered the injury, the psychological effects can be substantial. The limbic system controls a person’s behavioral and emotional responses. Multiple parts of the brain are involved in this system.
Common post-TBI emotional issues
People who suffer a TBI may suffer from anxiety, anger, irritability and depression. They may experience drastic mood changes for seemingly no reason. This can all be compounded by any pain and mobility challenges they may have from other injuries and the cognitive and sensory effects that are common with TBIs.
The extent of these psychological impacts can vary based on how serious the TBI is. However, even mild TBIs like concussions can affect a person’s mental health to the extent that they need to get professional treatment in order to resume working, going to school, caring for their family and even feeling comfortable in social situations again.
Often, people with TBIs don’t get this psychological help as soon as they should. Family and friends may expect them to feel sad and angry – particularly if they were in a serious car crash, had some other kind of accident like a bad fall or were the victim of an act of violence.
If you have suffered a TBI due to someone else’s actions or negligence, it’s crucial to consider the full extent of the injury and the treatment needed for it before agreeing to a settlement. That includes the cost of mental health treatment as well as non-economic damages like the effect of the injury on your ability to work and resume your normal life. Having experienced legal guidance can help you get the compensation you need and deserve.