Concussion significantly increases the risk of severe mental health illness post-childbirth

By Chelsea Ryan. This article was initially published in the 12/19/24 edition of our Concussion Update newsletter; please consider subscribing.

A study in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry has found evidence to suggest a link between concussion history and a 25% increased risk of severe mental health challenges in the 14 years after childbirth in comparison to those who have no history of concussion. Krueger et al. note that the risk was even higher for those with no pre-existing mental health conditions––increasing the risk of severe mental health illness in the years after childbirth to 33% higher than those who have not sustained a concussion. In a University of Toronto press release, Kruger notes that “concussion may be an important but overlooked risk factor during pregnancy and postpartum care.” 

This study tracked over 750,000 individuals in Ontario, Canada over 10 years (2007-2017). Severe mental health outcomes noted in the study included self-harm or suicide, psychiatric emergency department visits, and psychiatric hospitalization. All these outcomes occurred significantly more frequently among the population with a history of concussion.

Study author Dr. Hilary Brown suggests that the “physical and emotional challenges of parenting,” including sleep deprivation, may worsen any existing concussion symptoms. She notes that “Sleep is critical to recovery after a head injury, but sleep deprivation is a reality for many new parents.” Additionally, Brown states that “Cognitive impairments, sensitivities to light and noise, and the stress of caring for a newborn can all intensify concussion symptoms, which in turn may raise the risk of mental health issues over time.”

These findings underscore the importance of early identification and tailored care for women with a concussion history. Routine screening during maternal care could help healthcare providers implement interventions to mitigate mental health risks. Potential support measures include programs targeted to address sleep, stress management, and emotional well-being.

Integrating concussion history screening into maternal care policies worldwide could safeguard the mental health of many new parents and foster healthier mental health outcomes for families.