Template only — not medical advice. Always review with a licensed healthcare professional before distributing.
Want to customize this handout for your clinic?
Sign in free to edit, add your clinic branding, and save your own version.
Concussion Rehabilitation Clinic Visit: Coping With Stress Symptoms
Summary
Managing stress after a concussion can be challenging, but with the right strategies, you can support your recovery effectively. This guide will help you understand common symptoms and how to manage them, ensuring a smoother rehabilitation journey.
What Is This & Why It Matters
A concussion is a type of brain injury that can affect your mental health and emotional well-being. It's not unusual to experience stress, worry, or difficulty sleeping during recovery. Understanding these symptoms and knowing how to manage them can make a big difference in your healing process.
What You Should Do
- Practice deep breathing exercises for 5 minutes, three times daily to help calm your mind.
- Attend any scheduled counseling sessions to talk about your feelings and get support.
- Use ibuprofen (NSAID) 400 mg with food every 6-8 hours for pain management during flare-ups.
- Ensure you get plenty of rest by setting a regular sleep routine.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
- Engage in light physical activities like walking, as advised by your therapist.
- Keep a diary to track symptoms and note any patterns or triggers.
What You Should NOT Do
- Don't skip meals; regular nutrition is essential for recovery.
- Avoid alcohol as it can interfere with healing and increase stress.
- Do not engage in high-intensity workouts until your therapist gives the green light.
- Refrain from using electronic devices for long periods; they can strain your eyes and mind.
- Avoid self-medicating with painkillers not prescribed by your doctor.
Symptoms: Normal vs Warning Signs
Normal (Don't Worry)
- Mild headaches that come and go.
- Feeling more tired than usual, especially in the afternoon.
- Occasional mood swings or irritability.
- Difficulty concentrating on tasks for extended periods.
Call Your Doctor If...
- Fever above 101°F that doesn't subside with medication.
- Pain levels reaching above 8 out of 10 on the pain scale despite treatment.
- Persistent vomiting or severe nausea that doesn't improve.
- Breathing difficulties such as shortness of breath or wheezing.
- Thoughts of self-harm or feeling hopeless and very down.
- Sudden confusion or inability to recognize familiar people or places.
FAQ
Why am I feeling so stressed after my concussion?
Stress is a common part of concussion recovery. Your brain is healing, which can impact emotions.
How long will I need to follow these breathing exercises?
Continue until advised otherwise by your therapist. They help manage stress effectively.
Is it safe to take ibuprofen daily for pain?
Yes, but always follow dosage instructions and take it with food to avoid stomach irritation.
What should I do if I can't sleep well at night?
Try maintaining a regular bedtime routine and limit screen time before bed.
Can I drive while recovering from a concussion?
It's best to avoid driving until your healthcare provider confirms it's safe.
How can I tell if my symptoms are worsening?
Look out for warning signs like increased pain, fever, or severe mood changes.
When should I schedule my next follow-up appointment?
Follow up in 1-2 weeks unless experiencing severe symptoms requiring immediate attention.