Head Injuries and Mental Health: What New Research Means for Injury Victims and Their Families

January 08, 2026, Kitchener, Ontario

Posted by: Robert Deutschmann, Personal Injury Lawyer

Head injuries are often discussed in terms of physical symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, or memory problems. However, new medical research shows that the effects of a head injury can go much deeper. Studies now indicate that people who suffer a head injury may face a higher risk of serious mental health challenges, including an increased risk of suicide attempts later in life. Understanding this connection is important for injury victims, families, and anyone pursuing a personal injury claim in Ontario.

What the Research Shows

A large long-term study conducted by Dr. Nicola Adderley, PhD, University of Birmingham in Birmingham, England, examined the health records of more than 1.8 million adults over a period of 20 years. Researchers found that people who experienced a head injury were about 20 per cent more likely to attempt suicide than those who had never had a head injury. This increased risk remained even when factors such as age, income level, and past mental health history were taken into account.

One of the most important findings was that the risk was not limited to people who already had mental health conditions. Even individuals with no previous history of depression, anxiety, or other mental health concerns showed a higher risk after a head injury. This suggests that the injury itself can play a role in later emotional and psychological distress.

The First Year After a Head Injury Matters Most

Researchers also identified that the first year following a head injury is a particularly vulnerable time. During this period, people are more likely to experience emotional changes, frustration, mood swings, or feelings of hopelessness. These challenges may be linked to changes in brain function, difficulty returning to work, chronic pain, or the stress of adjusting to life after an injury.

While the risk of suicide attempts tends to decrease over time, it does not disappear entirely. Some individuals continue to face mental health struggles years after the original injury, especially if symptoms are not properly recognized or treated.

Why Head Injuries Can Affect Mental Health

Head injuries, including concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), can affect how the brain processes emotions, controls impulses, and manages stress. Even a “mild” brain injury can disrupt normal brain function. People may feel more irritable, impulsive, or emotionally overwhelmed than before.

In addition to physical changes in the brain, head injuries can lead to major life disruptions. These may include time off work, reduced income, difficulty concentrating, loss of independence, or strain on relationships. Over time, these pressures can contribute to depression or thoughts of self-harm if proper support is not in place.

Why This Information Is Important for Injury Victims

For people who have suffered a head injury in a car accident, slip and fall, or other incident caused by someone else’s negligence, this research highlights an important reality: the impact of the injury may not be fully understood right away. Mental health symptoms can develop months or even years after the accident.

Seeking medical attention for emotional and psychological symptoms is just as important as treating physical injuries. Talking to a family doctor, neurologist, or mental health professional can help identify concerns early and connect individuals with appropriate care.

How This Affects Personal Injury Claims in Ontario

From a legal perspective, these findings reinforce the importance of looking at the full impact of a head injury. Compensation in a personal injury claim should reflect not only physical pain and medical bills, but also long-term mental health effects and reduced quality of life.

Medical records, psychological assessments, and ongoing treatment plans can play a key role in showing how a head injury has affected a person’s emotional wellbeing. When mental health issues are properly documented and linked to the original injury, it strengthens the case for fair compensation that addresses future care needs, therapy costs, and loss of enjoyment of life.

Support and Awareness Are Key

Families and caregivers also play an important role. Changes in mood, behaviour, or personality after a head injury should not be ignored. Early support, open conversations, and professional help can make a meaningful difference in recovery and long-term well-being.

Moving Forward

Head injuries are more than just a short-term physical issue. Growing medical evidence shows they can have lasting emotional and psychological consequences, including a higher risk of suicide attempts. Recognizing these risks allows injury victims to seek the right care, helps families provide better support, and ensures that personal injury claims fully reflect the true impact of the injury.

At Deutschmann de Koning Law, understanding the long-term effects of head injuries is essential to advocating effectively for injured Ontarians. Addressing both physical and mental health outcomes is a critical step toward achieving meaningful recovery and fair legal outcomes.

If you or your loved one has sustained a serious head injury in an accident, contact one of our experienced personal injury lawyers today.

About Deutschmann de Koning Law

Deutschmann de Koning Law serves South-Western Ontario with offices in Kitchener-Waterloo, Cambridge, Woodstock, Brantford, Stratford and Ayr. The law practice of Robert Deutschmann and Nick de Koning focuses almost exclusively in personal injury and disability insurance matters. For more information, please visit www.ddinjurylaw.com or call us at 1-519-742-7774.