Posttraumatic Stress, Illness Perception, Concussion Symptoms, and Quality of Life Following Mild Traumatic Brain Injury

PTSD plays a critical role in mediating the relationship between PCSs and QoL, whereas negative illness perception further amplifies this indirect effect, leading to a poorer QoL 3 months postinjury. These findings confirm the presence of a moderated mediation pathway, highlighting the need for early psychological screening and targeted interventions that address both PTSD and negative illness perception. Integrating these strategies into postacute rehabilitation may improve long-term recovery outcomes in working-age individuals with mTBI.