Physical Injuries, regardless if you are dealing with an acute or long-term health challenges, impact so much more than what is typically seen on an X-ray, MRI or CT scan. You may have had to spend an extended period away from work, or still be dealing with lingering pain. You may be trying to move past a traumatic experience, such as a car accident or fall. Chances are that the care you received centered only on your physical healing. No matter how comprehensive your treatment might be, that still leaves one key body part unaddressed: your brain.
Your mental health may be affected by a physical injury – and for longer than you might expect. One recent study showed that over one in five (22%) patients dealing with injuries self-reported information indicative of anxiety, depression and/or PTSD. Another showed 15% of patients still showed psychological distress, defined by the authors as “broad concept used to describe a state of emotional suffering that interferes with a person’s functioning, and is typically characterised by symptoms of anxiety and depression,” a year post-injury and 16% two years later. Despite this, only 18% of those with probable anxiety, depression or PTSD reported receiving mental healthcare.
Mental and physical health are powerfully connected
There are many reasons why it’s key for you to be as proactive about healing your brain as you are your body. Your physical and mental wellbeing both play a role in recovery. Studies show that anxiety, depression and PTSD have notable impacts on when you can return to work, how much time you need to spend in the healthcare system and your healthcare-related quality of life. For example, if you are dealing with depression, it may also heighten your experience of pain. Anxiety is associated with challenges in the later stages of physical recovery. PTSD post-injury is linked to both anxiety and depression, as well as chronic pain/disability and even substance use issues, according to research. If you suspect you’re dealing with these or other mental health issues, working with a specialist can set you on a road to faster, more complete recovery.
What does post-injury mental health care look like?
While your care will depend on your individual mental and physical symptoms, it will likely begin with a comprehensive assessment. Treatments may include therapy and/or medication. If you have suspected neurological injuries or suffered a concussion, you may also benefit from cognitive rehabilitation and/or post concussion management.
How can you find a specialist near you?
Telemedicine has dramatically transformed access to mental healthcare, so you don’t have to live near a major city or be able to drive long distances to receive personalized treatment. At Apex Neurobehavioral Health, we have trauma-informed, licensed clinicians who work with you through a HIPAA-compliant videoconferencing platform, which is available in all 50 states. In addition, our services are available in both English and Spanish to broaden native-language access.
Ready to start your mental health journey?
You can find out more about how Apex Neurobehavioral Health HERE.