Concussion and mental health

A concussion is a brain injury, even when it looks mild from the outside. The effects on mood, thinking and emotions are just as real as the physical symptoms, and they deserve the same careful attention.

What it is

Concussion happens when a knock or jolt affects normal brain function, common in contact sports and collision incidents. Alongside physical symptoms like headache, dizziness and light sensitivity, concussion can affect mood and mental health - causing irritability, anxiety, low mood, difficulty concentrating and emotional ups and downs during recovery. Research consistently shows that athletes with a history of concussion, particularly repeated concussions, can be at greater risk of ongoing mental health difficulties, so this is not something to push through or downplay.

Signs to notice

• Headache, dizziness, nausea or sensitivity to light and noise after a knock to the head
• Difficulty concentrating, remembering things, or feeling "foggy"
• Increased irritability, anxiety or tearfulness during recovery
• Low mood, flatness or loss of interest that develops or worsens after a concussion
• Sleep disturbance during the recovery period
• Frustration or distress about being kept out of training or competition

What helps

• Follow proper return-to-play protocols exactly - a concussion needs full physical and cognitive rest before graded return, even if symptoms seem to ease quickly
• Never hide or downplay concussion symptoms to get back to play sooner - this significantly increases risk of further injury and slower recovery
• Expect mood changes as part of the recovery process, and be gentle with yourself about them
• Stay socially connected during recovery, even if you can't train, to reduce isolation
• Ask your medical team about the mental health side of concussion recovery, not just the physical symptoms
• Use a sport psychologist or counsellor if mood, anxiety or frustration during recovery feels hard to manage

When to reach out for help

If low mood, anxiety, irritability or emotional changes persist beyond the expected recovery period, or if you ever have thoughts of harming yourself during or after concussion recovery, reach out for professional help immediately. These symptoms are treatable, and support exists for exactly this.

Getting help in South Africa

Cleared Mind's EAP counsellors can support the emotional and mental health side of concussion recovery alongside your medical team. SADAG's Mental Health Line (011 234 4837) is available for further support.

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If you or someone else is in immediate danger, reach out now. SADAG Suicide Crisis Helpline (24h): 0800 567 567 or SMS 31393. SAPS 10111, ambulance 10177, GBV Command Centre 0800 428 428.