Changes in depression symptoms over 10 years after TBI; a long-term prospective study

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Psychiatry
• Public Health

Background:

• Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a significant cause of long-term disability.
• Depression is a common and persistent consequence following TBI.
• Understanding the trajectory and predictors of depression post-TBI is crucial for effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the prevalence and risk factors of depression symptoms 10 years after TBI.
• To compare depression rates at 10 weeks, 1 year, and 10 years post-TBI.
• To identify demographic and injury-related predictors of long-term depression after TBI.

Main Methods:

• A prospective cohort study followed 1130 individuals admitted with TBI.
• Depression was assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) score > 8.
• Multivariable analysis identified independent predictors of depression at 10 years.

Main Results:

• Depression prevalence was 56.3% at 10 weeks, 42.4% at 1 year, and 38.4% at 10 years post-TBI.
• Significant predictors of 10-year depression included lower Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score, social deprivation, female gender, past psychiatric history, alcohol intoxication, and unemployment.
• Factors such as age, ethnicity, social support, TBI etiology, CT abnormality, and medical comorbidity were not significant predictors.

Conclusions:

• Depression symptoms remain prevalent 10 years after TBI, although individual symptom status can change considerably over time.
• Identified predictors of long-term depression can aid in targeting vulnerable subpopulations for intervention.
• Longitudinal monitoring and tailored interventions are essential for managing depression post-TBI.