The Cognitive Effects of Concussions
Concussions are often associated with athletes and sports-related injuries, but they can happen to anyone. Whether it’s a car accident, a fall, or a blow to the head, concussions can have a profound impact on cognitive function.
The Complexity of Concussions:
A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head. Although most concussions are considered mild, their impact on cognitive function can be significant. The brain, a complex organ with billions of interconnected neurons, can experience disruptions in communication and function following a concussion that can last days, weeks, or months.
Cognitive Effects of Concussions:
According to research, here are some of the most common ways concussions impact cognitive functions:
Memory Impairment:
One of the hallmark cognitive effects of concussions is memory impairment. Individuals may struggle with both short-term and long-term memory, finding it challenging to recall recent events or learn new information. This can affect daily life, making tasks like remembering appointments or names more difficult.
For kids, issues with working memory often look like distractibility, trouble focusing on tasks, issues with test-taking or reading, and more. These struggles with learning can really cause students’ confidence to take a hit, resulting in lower motivation and academic performance.
Attention and Concentration Issues:
Concussions often disrupt the brain’s ability to focus and concentrate. Individuals may find it harder to stay on task, filter out distractions, and sustain attention for extended periods. This can impact school or work performance and hinder the ability to complete tasks efficiently.
Read More: 5 Ways to Help Kids with ADHD Focus Better >>
Processing Speed Reduction:
The speed at which the brain processes information may be compromised after a concussion. This can manifest as slower reaction times, difficulty processing complex information, and challenges in keeping up with fast-paced activities.
Processing speed is a foundational skill that impacts many areas of life. Whether it’s returning to sports, a classroom, driving, conversations, or anything in between, building back strong processing speed is essential to make sure the brain is working efficiently.
Executive Function Challenges:
Executive functions, such as planning, organizing, and decision-making, may be affected. Individuals might struggle to initiate tasks, manage time effectively, and adapt to changing situations. These challenges can impact various aspects of daily life, from school and work to personal relationships.
Emotional and Behavioral Changes:
Concussions can influence mood and behavior. Individuals may experience heightened emotional responses, irritability, anxiety, or even depression. These changes are often not permanent, but they are a challenge to overcome on the road to recovery.
Brain Training Targets Cognitive Skills That Are Essential for Thinking & Learning
When you experience a concussion, you’re likely wanting to get back to “normal” as fast as possible. While these cognitive effects do often fade with time, many people continue to operate in a “fog” that keeps them from returning to pre-injury functioning.
At LearningRx, we know how important it is to feel confident in your cognitive abilities. When memory, attention, and processing are weakened, there are far-reaching effects that touch every part of life. Our brain training programs take a targeted approach to meeting you wherever you are and building up these skills.
The brain is capable of amazing growth and change. We’ve seen individuals with concussions and TBI make significant improvements in all cognitive skills as a result of targeted brain training, along with improvements in things like*:
- Increased confidence
- Improved perseverance
- Longer attention spans
- Stronger memory skills
- Better function at school/work
- And more!
While individual results may vary, we’d love the chance to hear your story and talk about how brain training could be a helpful tool to get your brain back—or to help a child regain their confidence in the classroom after an injury!
Click here to learn more about brain training for concussions & brain injuries >>
*Results based on studies and surveys of past clients. Outcomes may vary.
