An experimental study of resilience and its effect on simulated persistent postconcussion symptoms

BACKGROUND: Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) is a significant public health concern. Several factors contribute to symptom persistence, including potentially modifiable psychological factors. This study focused on resilience as a predictor of simulated persistent postconcussion symptoms (PPCS). METHODS: Participants were randomly assigned to a mTBI vignette condition with (n = 96) or without resilience-activation (control, n = 95). PPCS was measured using the Rivermead Post-Concussion Symptoms Questionnaire. The potential for a moderated relationship was explored using a measure of emotional distress (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale). RESULTS: Resilience, as measured by the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale, was successfully manipulated via the vignette (resilience activation > controls). Hierarchical linear regression (N = 191) demonstrated a significant negative association between group and PPCS, with resilience significantly accounting for 3.27% of unique variance in PPCS. The interaction between predictor variables did not significantly contribute to the overall variance in PPCS. CONCLUSIONS: Findings are consistent with prior correlational studies of resilience and PPCS, with the present study also isolating a specific role for resilience as distinct from emotional distress. Psychological resilience appears to be a promising target for PPCS reduction.