Hilary,

I doubt your IQ has dropped 20 to 30 points. Your processing speed has likely dropped and your ability to multi-task has also likely dropped due to a serious decline in your digit span. Digit span is the number of concepts the brain can hold and process at the same time. It requires good working memory which is often damaged by a brain injury.

You likely have memory deficits and difficulty focusing. This can make it hard to use your intelligence. Once you learn some memory and focusing skills, hopefully you will rediscover some of your lost intelligence. The most valuable skill is learning to "Stop to think." This is a shutting off of external stimuli and even closing your eyes momentarily to help you think.

There are other skills and work-arounds that help in specific situations.

Just let us know of your specific struggles and we can help you.

My best to you.