Can a head injury worsen depression or anxiety?

In general, whether a head injury can exacerbate depression or anxiety depends on a comprehensive assessment of factors such as the severity of the impact, individual psychological condition, and social support. Details are as follows:

If the impact is severe, accompanied by brain injury and persistent physical discomfort such as headaches and dizziness, and if the individual already has fragile mental health and lacks understanding and support from family or friends, depression or anxiety may worsen. Physical suffering consumes psychological resources, and feelings of helplessness after injury, along with concerns about health, can compound existing negative emotions, making individuals more prone to low mood, irritability, loss of confidence in life, and even intensified negative self-evaluation.

If the impact is mild, causing only temporary redness, swelling, or pain without substantial injury, and if the person maintains emotional stability and receives timely care and companionship from others, depression or anxiety typically will not worsen. Mild discomfort usually resolves quickly, and positive social support provides a sense of security, helping stabilize emotions, reduce negative associations, and prevent psychological fluctuations due to minor accidents.

After injury, it's important to get adequate rest and sufficient sleep, avoiding excessive rumination and emotional exhaustion. Maintain a light, easily digestible diet to provide necessary nutrition. If experiencing emotional distress, proactively talk to someone trusted to relieve stress. Monitor changes in mood; if you notice your condition deteriorating, seek professional help promptly to avoid delays in recovery.