For workers in California who’ve experience traumatic brain injuries (TBI), the physical effects are quite well-known. However, there are also a range of emotional and behavioral effects that can greatly impact a person’s like both at work and at home. Understanding these issues is vital to ensure you and your family can access the help you need to make the best recovery possible. Brainline.com highlights common mental symptoms that can occur after a TBI.

Swirling emotions

Mood swings are defined as an every-changing sequence of emotions. A person may be happy one minute, sad the next, and enraged a few minutes after that. It can be difficult for people to control their changing moods, especially when brain injury is an issue. In many cases, these behaviors are hardest on the families of those afflicted. While there may be a definable reason for a person’s behavior (i.e. the underlying brain injury), it can still be hard to handle on a day-to-day basis. In this case, seeking out the assistance of a behavioral therapist is beneficial for learning coping mechanisms. Support groups are also helpful, as members suffering from the same condition can exchange information on coping mechanisms and offer moral support.

Other common effects

Along with mood swings, people with TBI may exhibit other upsetting effects. Physical and verbal outbursts are common and these incidents may arise out of thin air. People may also exhibit negative personality traits such as an egocentric nature, intolerance, and apathy towards the thoughts and feelings of others. Risk-aversion can also be impacted. A person might take part in risky behavior even if they were cautious and law-abiding before. Mental issues such as depression or anxiety may present after a brain injury takes place.