Relationship between symptoms of mild head injury, psychosocial ability, psychological morbidity and coping style

Abstract

The mild head inured population accounts for 80 per cent of all head injuries and whilst research has identified no neurological abnormalities, this population still report to experience functional impairment. The current study set out to explore the biopsychosocial factors that could exacerbate the symptoms of mild head injury. In this respect, the study looks at the relationship between post concussion symptoms, social ability, psychological morbidity and coping style using the Rivermead Post-concussion symptoms Questionnaire, the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and the COPE questionnaire. Questionnaires were sent out to 138 individuals at 6 months post injury to identify relationships between coping style, post concussion symptoms, social support and psychological morbidity. 32 respondents completed and returned the questionnaires. Post concussion symptoms were positively related to social support, depression and anxiety. Active coping was found to be negatively related to post concussion symptoms whereas emotion focused and avoidant coping were positively associated with post concussion symptoms. The results of the study suggest that in order to improve symptoms of mild head injury practitioners must address symptoms of depression and anxiety, in addition to promoting a more productive coping style.