I agree with Mark in that you will need to communicate openly and honestly with your wife and children about your condition.

I am in the 19th month mark since being rear ended in a car accident (and now with pcs), and in my marriage I have given my children and husband permission to help me monitor myself.

They say "filter" - if I am talking too openly, honestly or inappropriately for my 13, 10 or 5 year olds, or "too much" if I am reacting out of proportion to the situation (anger, sadness, panic, etc.). I also take time outs or a quick walk to help adjust.

You may need to come up with your own words and process of what to do so that your family can tell you when they need you to back away, take a time out or give them some space. You also have to give them permission to say this without getting defensive. We may feel more comfortable with our feelings than they are-and we need to allow them to react.

I think that although I do count on my family to help me, I also try to check in weekly about how things are going so we can talk openly about the changing nature of our family.

I'm sorry you and your family are stressed. I think the only thing that can help marriages and families survive the trauma and aftermath of brain injury is to be as supportive and honest and caring with one another as possible.

I wish you the best-