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Prevalence of depressi...

Prevalence of depression after traumatic brain injury Main Image

Prevalence of depression after traumatic brain injury

Fri 04 Jun 2010

Research explores the prevalence of depression after TBI, most commonly indicated by effects such as fatigue, frustration and poor concentration. 

Primary objective

Differing definitions of depression, limited sample sizes, and variability in methodologies have contributed to equivocal findings about the prevalence of depression among persons with traumatic brain injury. The present investigation used standardized diagnostic criteria and a large sample to identify the manifestations of depression after TBI. 

Methods and procedures

722 outpatients with brain injury, referred for comprehensive assessment at a regional Level I trauma centre, were studied. Depressive symptoms were characterized utilizing standard DSM-IV criteria and the Neurobehavioural Functioning Inventory. 

Results

Forty-two per cent of patients with brain injury met the prerequisite number of symptoms for a DSM-IV diagnosis of major depressive disorder. Fatigue (46%), frustration (41%), and poor concentration (38%) were the most commonly cited manifestations of depression. 

Conclusions

Many patients with brain injury are at great risk for developing depressive disorders. Future research should focus on prognostic factors, developing protocols for identification of high risk patients, and examining the efficacy of treatment interventions.

 

Kreutzer, J.S., Seel, R.T., & Gourley, E. (2009). The prevalence and symptom rates of depression after traumatic brain injury: a comprehensive examination. Brain Injury, 15 (7), 563-576. 

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