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Published on: September 25, 2014
Predicting Concussion Recovery with PHQ-9 and GAD-7
Dusty Marie Narducci1, Byron Moran1, Eric Coris1
1From the Department of Family Medicine, University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, Department of Family Medicine, College of Medicine Office of Research, and Department of Orthopedics, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, and Department of Physical Therapy, Creighton University, Phoenix, Arizona.
Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) and General Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) scores can predict concussion recovery time. Higher scores indicate longer recovery, suggesting a need for early psychological intervention in concussed individuals.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Psychiatry
- Sports Medicine
Background:
- Concussion recovery can be lengthy and variable.
- Identifying predictors of prolonged recovery is crucial for timely intervention.
- Mental health screening tools are increasingly used in concussion management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the predictive value of Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) and General Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) scores for concussion recovery duration.
- To determine if baseline mental health status influences concussion recovery time.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective cohort study involving 502 participants at a concussion center.
- PHQ-9 and GAD-7 scores were administered at initial visit and follow-ups (14, 28, 56, 84 days).
- Analysis of median recovery time based on PHQ-9 and GAD-7 score thresholds.
Main Results:
- Median concussion recovery was 21 days.
- PHQ-9 scores >6 were associated with a median recovery of 33 days (HR 0.525, P < 0.0001).
- GAD-7 scores >4 were associated with a median recovery of 32 days (HR 0.554, P < 0.00).
Conclusions:
- PHQ-9 and GAD-7 scores are predictive of concussion recovery time.
- Elevated scores suggest a longer recovery trajectory.
- These screening tools may identify individuals benefiting from early psychological support.
