"but every post I read on this website talks about how complete cognitive rest is absolutely critical. "

You must be reading only a very few posts. Complete cognitive rest is NOT absolutely critical. In fact, cognitive rest is important for the first 2 or 3 days and mild stimulation should start after that.

If your vision issue is resolved, you should just move on. But, I wonder if you actually had a vision issue if a PT could resolve it. The PT was more likely a placebo that helped you move on.

If you are starting college with this much anxiety, you will have a miserable time. You need to get focused on resolving your anxiety, not your head bumps.

Anxiety can cause the slowed down and foggy after the bump at work. I'm not convinced that bump was a even a concussion. Many have had the same anxiety induced symptoms. Your brain can actually memorize a set of symptoms that will reoccur when you think you have experienced the triggering event again.

So, stay away from caffeine because it is anxiety inducing and find some help with your anxiety.