"It’s a very personal experience. No one knows what this is like until they have gone through this...
your brain is not the brain you had. "
your brain is not the brain you had. "
The personal impact and life change of concussion and post concussion syndrome is overwhelming for many survivors. Below are some of the potential developments and concerns that survivors may face. We created this list to inform other survivors that they are not alone in the battle to recover as well as to educate friends and family who may have not experienced the condition. The following are only a few of the implications that concussion can have on survivors as they move forward.
Survivors may experience some or all of these life changes while recovering from concussion:
- Loss or Inhibition of Certain Abilities
- Frustration
- Isolation
- Sadness or Depression
- Feeling "Crazy" or "Not Right"
- Confusion or Disorientation
- Nervousness or Anxiety
- Feeling Slowed Down or More Cautious
- Grief
- Anger
- Altered Sensation or Perception
- Mood Swings
- Loss of or Lessened Motivation
Other effects of concussion can result in:
- Strained relationships
- Loss or change of jobs or career
- Inability to drive or slowed reaction while driving
- Substance abuse
- Changes in sleep & rest
- Changes in personality
- Altered or limited interests & activities
It is important to try to stay positive. You can recover!
How to be Proactive for Yourself:
Many survivors strive to create a new life while grieving the loss of the old life. As you recover, you are regenerating a new brain, and ultimately, a new life.
- Find someone you can trust to confide in
- Create a 'retreat' for yourself
- Try to engage in things that bring you joy
- Get in touch with your faith or spiritual base
- Locate recovery assistance as symptoms appear
- Take each day as it comes
- Remove yourself from stressful environments
- Love yourself (including your new self)
Many survivors strive to create a new life while grieving the loss of the old life. As you recover, you are regenerating a new brain, and ultimately, a new life.