The Association Between Head Injuries and Psychiatric Disorders: Findings From the New Haven NIMH Epidemiologic Catchment Area Study

Attempts to determine the association of report of any history of head injury with loss of consciousness or confusion & a lifetime diagnosis of psychiatric disorder in a general population. When controlling for sociodemographic factors, quality of life indicators & alcohol use, risk was increased for major depression, dysthmia, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, phobic disorder & drug abuse/dependence in those suffering from head injury. Also, lifetime risk of suicide was greater. (27 refs)