This infocomic provides strategies to manage depression after TBI.

Managing Depression After Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

After his traumatic brain injury (TBI), Brocky felt depressed. Depression after TBI is common. It may interfere with daily life. There are strategies to help manage depression.

Brocky looks out a window.

Symptoms of depression include…

Feeling sad or hopeless • Feeling worthless or like a failure • Having thoughts of death or suicide

Brocky tries to sleep.

• Feeling tired or a lack of energy • Moving or speaking slowly or feeling restless • Changes in sleep or appetite

• Trouble concentrating • Withdrawing from others • Loss of interest in activities

Come play with us, dad! Maybe later.

Causes of depression after TBI include… Changes in the brain due to the TBI.

An emotional response to the TBI.

Sudden life changes due to TBI.

Factors that aren’t related to the TBI.

Needing help, Brocky decides it is time to talk with his doctor.

I think I might be depressed, and I don’t know what to do.

Dr. Brown tells Brocky that medicines, counseling, or a combination of the two can help most people who have depression.

One medicine such as ANTIDEPRESSANTS work by helping to re-balance the brain. These can take several weeks to reach maximum effectiveness, so it is important to take them as prescribed until a follow-up appointment with the doctor. Antidepressants are not addictive.

There are many kinds of PSYCHOTHERAPY (i.e., talk therapy) and counseling. For people with depression, the most effective types of therapy are those that focus on daily behavior and thoughts.

Other treatments may help to treat depression. Examples include exercise, acupuncture, or biofeedback. Consult your healthcare provider about these treatments.

Exercising with friends and family are also great ways to add social support to your exercise routine.

Acupuncture may help relieve discomfort associated with different conditions.

Biofeedback can be used to help treat depression. With biofeedback, sensors measure your brain activity.

Dr. Brown tells Brocky that seeing his primarcare doctor was a great first step. Other health care providers can also help.

You’re welcome, Brocky. Depression is not a sign of weakness, and it’s not anyone’s fault. You can do this!

If you have thoughts of death or suicide, get help right away. Call a local crisis line or 911. You can also call the National Crisis Hotline, which is open 24 hours a day, at 988. You can also go to a hospital or emergency room.

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