A connection between mild brain injuries and behavioral disorders?

Brain injuries are not an uncommon occurrence in children. Whether mild or serious, they can be a terrifying experience for children and parents alike. And if the immediate dangers of brain injuries aren’t alarming enough, a recent study suggests an association between mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBI) in children and post-injury behavioral disorders.

An American Academy of Pediatrics study included nearly 19,000 children under 17 years of age who had sustained an mTBI between 2000 and 2014. Researchers compared each patient who had suffered a mTBI to two unexposed patients and found that adjusted risks for affective disorders were significantly higher the first three years post-injury for those with mTBI. The second and fourth year after mTBI, there was a 37% increase in risk of behavioral disorders. Children 10-14 years old were most at risk for behavioral and affective disorders.

These disorders can include depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, conduct disorder and oppositional defiant disorder.

“After an mTBI injury, a child may experience symptoms ranging from confusion, disorientation, and/or varying degrees of changes in their normal level of function, not requiring surgical intervention,” explains Dr. Daphne Li, a pediatric neurosurgeon at Advocate Children’s Hospital. “Given that mTBI represents at least 75% of all TBIs annually, there is a high likelihood that the incidence of co-occurring mental health condition is significant. Early identification and treatment may have the potential to decrease the impact and burden of these disorders on children and their families. Studies like this increase awareness of the potential consequences of mTBI even after the initial recovery process.”

She offers the following guidance for preventing traumatic brain injuries:

• Avoid situations where injury is likely to occur, although this may not always be possible.
• Use appropriate safety equipment, including seatbelts, helmets, etc.
• Properly supervise activities that allow for safe participation, but also timely recognition of injury and early intervention
• Set a good example for your kids by also wearing helmets or appropriate safety equipment

If you are ever concerned your child has suffered a head injury, do not hesitate to seek medical attention. Check with your pediatrician, nearby health professionals or seek evaluation at your local emergency room.

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