Mental Health Therapy for Post-Concussion Symptoms
Concussion are unique to each individual and require professional support for best outcomes.
Those who struggle with ongoing post-concussion symptoms are a greater risk for depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) which can interfere with your recovery.
There are many ways that individuals can acquire concussions, including from sports incidents, vehicle-related accidents, intimate partner violence, or from falling on an icy surface, among others.
The long-term effects of mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBI) or prolonged post-concussion syndrome can include symptoms such as fatigue, headaches/migraines, sleep issues, difficulty concentrating and sensitivity to light and noise among many other symptoms.
Mental Health Therapy
Mental health therapy can help individuals manage and reduce post-concussion symptoms through mindfulness-based therapeutic approaches. Furthermore, talk therapies can help address trauma, depression, anxiety, as well as grief and loss which can all result from the incident and persistent post-concussion symptoms.
Research
Extensive research has demonstrated that mindfulness-based interventions can lead to improvements in mental and physical health, quality of life, and lead to a significant reduction in depression and fatigue for individuals struggling with post-concussion symptoms.
Therapeutic Approaches
I am trained in many mindfulness-based approaches (nature, somatic yoga, EMDR), as well as Narrative and Parts Work therapies which can improve your coping skills and support you in accepting and integrating your life experiences with the intention to find harmony within your Self. We can also explore how nutrition & lifestyle can also impact post-concussion symptoms.
Your Recovery Journey
My approach will depend on what resonates with you most and where you are at in your recovery journey. We may explore a combination of therapeutic approaches which can include traditional therapy sessions in my therapy office; a session (or part of a session) on the yoga mat through restorative gentle shapes that rest your brain, reset your nervous system, and help you process your emotions; or have an outdoor session inviting nature as a co-facilitator in quieting the brain, while increasing mental clarity and an overall sense of wellbeing.
I know from my own experience that healing from a mTBI/concussion can be frustrating and overwhelming. Each concussion is unique and often requires a team of healthcare professionals to support you in your recovery journey — including massage/fascia therapist, physiotherapist, chiropractor, and neurologist, among others. Mental health therapy is one facet of your recovery journey. Please contact me for a free 20-minute consultation.
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Resource
Understanding the impact of your concussion and prolonged symptoms can be very empowering and helpful in your recovery journey. The following website provides good information for you to explore. Guidelines for Concussion and Prolonged Symptoms for Adults 18 Years of Age or Older
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Sources
Acabchuk, R.L., et al. (2020). Therapeutic effects of meditation, yoga, and mindfulness-based interventions for chronic symptoms of mild traumatic brain injury: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Applied Psychology: Health and Well-Being. DOI 10.1111/aphw.12244
Silverberg, N.D., & Mikolić, A. (2023). Management of Psychological Complications Following Mild Traumatic Brain Injury. Curr Neurol Neurosci Rep 23, 49–58. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11910-023-01251-9
Vibholm, A. P. et al. (2020). Nature-based rehabilitation for adults with acquired brain injury a scoping review. International Journal of Environmental Health Research, 30 (6), 661-676.
https://doi.org/10.1080/09603123.2019.1620183
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