The Emotional Signs and Symptoms of a Traumatic Brain Injury

In the United States, 153 people die every day from injuries that involve traumatic brain injuries. In fact, traumatic brain injuries are cited in approximately 30 percent of injury-related deaths in the United States. Millions of traumatic brain injuries occur every year. Whereas some individuals make a full recovery from their traumatic brain injuries and suffer no lasting effects, others are diagnosed with permanent disabilities or conditions that they must live with the rest of their lives.

Falls, being hit by an object (or being knocked into an object), and motor vehicle crashes are the three most common causes of traumatic brain injuries.

There are a number of symptoms that hint that a person has suffered a traumatic brain injury. These include:

• Memory problems
• Confusion
• Loss of coordination
• Nausea/vomiting
• Sensitivity to light or sounds
• Fatigue
• Feeling “off”
• Loss of consciousness
• Blurred vision

Many individuals are familiar with the physical signs of a traumatic brain injury. However, did you know that there are also emotional symptoms that are common after a traumatic brain injury?

If the parts of the brain that facilitate the processing and expression of emotions are damaged during a traumatic brain injury, the victim may exhibit changes in mood or temperament.

For example, major mood swings may occur after a traumatic brain injury. These individuals may show intense emotion, such as anger, that only lasts for a short while. Or, the individual may fluctuate between emotions, such as sadness, joy, and anger. These mood swings may occur without warning and without any apparent trigger.

An individual with a traumatic brain injury may also feel anxious—and may not understand why the feelings of anxiety persist. Some individuals may even suffer from panic attacks.

Depression is another emotional sign of a traumatic brain injury. Individuals may feel frustrated and sad after their injuries, especially if they have challenging physical symptoms they must now overcome.

Similar to mood swings, some individuals with traumatic brain injuries also suffer from sudden anger outbursts, as well as irritability. In fact, one study shows that approximately 71 percent of individuals with a traumatic brain injury are often irritable. They may throw things, slam doors, or threaten others.

A lack of good judgment, impulsiveness, and disinhibition are also common emotional signs of a traumatic brain injury. An individual may engage in risky behavior that he or she would not have engaged in before.

On the opposite end of extreme emotions, other victims with traumatic brain injuries may exhibit a total lack of emotion. They may be apathetic or unresponsive, even to loved ones. The individual may suddenly act self-centered and display a lack of empathy.

These emotional signs and symptoms of a traumatic brain injury are often difficult for friends and family members to witness. However, it is possible to treat some of these symptoms with therapy and medication. Seeking treatment as soon as possible is crucial in improving the odds of recovery.

If you or a loved one suffered a traumatic brain injury, contact our compassionate New Jersey brain injury lawyers today

At Leonard Legal Group, our New Jersey injury attorneys understand that traumatic brain injuries have a devastating impact on families. When negligent individuals cause traumatic brain injuries, we hold them accountable for the harm they have caused. We proudly represent clients throughout the state of New Jersey. To schedule your free consultation with our experienced injury attorneys, call 973-984-1414 or contact us online.