Depression, social support, and family coping following traumatic brain injury

Relationships among variables related to patients' psychological functioning and family coping following traumatic brain injury (TBI) were investigated in a sample of 13 matched pairs of patients and family members. Patient depression and perceived stress were examined in relation to perceived social support from family/friends, family coping, and perceived family stress. Greater perceived social support from family was related to lower reported levels of patient depression and perceived stress. Family coping style was also related to patient perceived stress and depression. Family stress due to greater patient physical limitations was related to lower patient depression and perceived stress. The findings of this study clearly suggest an important link between family environment and patient functioning following TBI which has implications For intervention with patients and families. (C) 2000 Academic Press.