Studies of retired NFL players, who have suffered with concussions, shows that they are at a higher risk of becoming depressed later in life.
It is a known fact that football is a sport of physical impact. Aside from the common knee, shoulder and back injuries that NFL athletes can have, we also need to pay attention to the head injuries.
Players can experience depressive symptoms including excessive guilt, sleep changes, low energy and social isolation after head injuries. It can occur 20-30 years after their football careers are over.
The key to receiving the best treatment is to discover the depression as soon as possible. The football players should be evaluated for symptoms as soon as the injuries occur and they should report any further mood changes afterwards. Unlike some chronic sports injuries, depression can be treated and the sooner we treat the better the results.