Originally Posted by Mark in Idaho

Eamon44,

Welcome to NeuroTalk. What you are going through is quite common. Your anxiety levels should be getting better attention. You may need something other than Zoloft. Some people do not respond the same to drugs. Ask your psychiatrist if there is something else you can try. I am on Celexa. The side-effects are minimal. Even a short time with a benzo like Klonopin may be worthwhile while you transition to something else. Ask your doctor. IMO, these drugs should not be prescribed by a neurologist but instead, by a psychiatrist. I hope that is your case.

Your history of concussions puts you in the 'multiple impact syndrome' category. This can contribute to more serious symptoms and a longer recovery time. It can even cause you to have prolonged symptoms that need to be managed since they may not heal completely. I suggest you stop contact sports permanently.

In the mean time, you need to find some low stress activities to occupy your time and attention. You want something with a low cognitive load. Activities that require the use of your hands more then your mind will be helpful. No video games or high stimulating music or videos. Playing solitaire with real cards can be good. Learn to knit or crochet. Many NFL players use knitting to settle their minds after games. I have used old movies as ways to occupy my mind. Nothing with intense action or high suspense plots.

I also suggest you read the sticky at the top about Vitamins and Supplements. Your brain needs extra nutrition. The vitamins are not a quick fix. The brain needs weeks and months of a healthy environment to slowly purge the toxins from the injury and start to rebuild. The B-12 and B-complex with D3 are the most important for your injured brain. I take B-12 three times a day. 1000 mcgs of methylcobalamin B-12 would be a good start. L-Tryptophan and L-Theanine may also be helpful.

It will be very helpful to get a good assessment of your upper neck. Many concussion symptoms are due to upper neck injuries that go undiagnosed and untreated. Read the thread "I'm cured" by sleepybo. Remember that the head is connected to the neck. Anything that traumatizes the head also impacts the neck. C-1 and C-2 can be easily injured and need careful diagnostics and treatment. Head aches often are related to upper neck injuries.

Try to stay away from the deep philosophical thoughts. They are too stressful. Find short duration activities and rotate between the activities to keep you mind occupied with things other than introspection.

Please stay in touch. There are plenty of good people here to support you. And feel free to ask anything. We've heard it all.

My best to you.