2BLUE,

Welcome to NeuroTalk. Sorry to hear of your struggles. There is a wide variety of experiences on NT to help you.

If you feel up to it, tell us about your biggest struggles. The struggle of others thinking you are back to normal is normal. We all deal with it. Some prefer to not discuss their symptoms with others. I am of the belief that good information is good for those others to better understand you.

You likely do not fully understand your own condition. This is a common situation since very few doctors are willing to help you understand. You probably also struggle to put this information into terms that others can understand.

Over my lifetime of dealing with mTBI, I have developed many work-arounds and accommodations that help me do things as if I had a healthy brain. When I get stopped in my tracks, others are surprised and often incredulous. My ability to explain what just happened in terms that they understand is usually received with great compassion and understanding. I don't wine about my struggles. I just speak of them in a 'matter of fact' tone.

It all starts with understanding TBI and your own situation.

The TBI Survival Guide mentioned by Jeffrey is a good start. It can be downloaded at www.tbiguide.com

You can print it out and read it as your brain allows. Then, you can highlight parts that pertain to you so others can read it. Family will finally say, "I didn't understand that. Now I think I do. " When my wife could finally start to see my symptoms and limitations from an objective perspective, everything changed.

It is also helpful to find a brain injury support group. Most state brain injury associations have a list of the groups in your area. They can be very helpful for family to attend. They can learn lots from the other family and caregivers of the brain injured.

Sorry to be so long in my response.

Take your time with your replies. We all understand the roller coaster of TBI.

My best to you.