UCLA Proves PTSD may be Linked to Traumatic Brain Injuries

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) and post-traumatic stress disorder are devastating conditions that men and women in the armed forces can sustain before or after a deployment.  Many studies link the two conditions, revealing that there is an increased chance an individual may develop PTSD if he or she has experienced a prior traumatic head injury.  UCLA conducted a study which revealed that people who have sustained a mild traumatic brain injury should avoid stressful situations since they are more at risk for disorders such as anxiety.  In a more recent study published in JAMA Psychiatry, researchers found U.S. Marines who suffered a TBI during active-duty deployment were more likely to develop PTSD.

In the study, researchers used data from military personnel files; however, this can be the same result for non-military members.  The study published made no mention of any specific military components that factored into the research itself or the conclusion of the TBI study.

The researchers used the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS), which is a method used to diagnose PTSD and the severity of the condition.  Of the PTSD victims analyzed, more than 50% said they had experienced a TBI prior to deployment, and 20% of the servicemen said they experienced one during deployment.  The researchers found that marines who suffered mild TBI during deployment were approximately twice as likely to develop PTSD.   The researchers state that many factors can lead to the development of PTSD.  According to the researchers, two of the most significant are pre-existing psychiatric symptoms and the type of trauma experienced. Nevertheless, the researchers found that TBI was the strongest predictor of PTSD.

If you believe yourself or a loved one suffers from PTSD or any type of brain injury contact a personal injury attorney.  Only attorneys in New Mexico that is experienced in traumatic brain injury or spinal cord injury can litigate such cases with the most promising outcomes.  Litigation is not always necessary and the TBI attorney ensures the injury victim’s rights are protected during the personal injury lawsuit.