A recent study titled, “Neuropsychiatric determinants of delayed concussion referral,” published in the Journal of Neurosurgery examined why some young athletes delay seeking specialized concussion care. They found that getting care late was more likely when the athlete had a history of mental health issues, a family history of migraines, or wasn’t checked on the field by a certified athletic trainer properly.
Key Findings
- Adolescents with a psychiatric history or family history of migraines are more likely to delay seeking specialty concussion care, and those with both concussion and depression may experience greater brain connectivity disruptions than concussion alone.
- Athletes who are not evaluated by a certified athletic trainer at the time of injury are more likely to have delayed referral, particularly in schools without trained medical staff where recognition often falls to coaches or parents.
- Overall, delayed presentation appears to be driven by both neuropsychiatric vulnerability and systemic gaps in medical support, rather than geography alone.
Early concussion evaluation is critical. Delays in specialty care may increase symptom burden, prolong recovery, and contribute to persistent emotional and cognitive difficulties. This research shifts the conversation from simply increasing clinic locations to improving early detection pathways, mental health screening, and on field evaluation systems.
Where EyeBOX Fits In
Concussions can go unrecognized, especially in schools without certified athletic trainers, where identification depends on students reporting symptoms. EyeBOX is an objective, eye tracking-based test that can detect concussion-related changes without relying only on how someone says they feel. Tools like EyeBOX can help catch injuries earlier, speed up referrals, and reduce delays in care, especially for students who may already be at higher risk.