I'm not even sure what "crazy" means. My TBI has convinced me that who/what we are is determined, largely, by a bunch of neurons. Shake them up enough and you can completely alter personality and behaviour. Heck, even subtle injuries can have enormous consequences.

My situation has made me even more sympathetic to the pain of people labeled "mentally" ill. Using that term, implies a lot more choice and control than I believe is really in play - and blames people for their illness.

Really why do we talk about "physical" and "mental" illness? The brain is a body part, just like a kidney or a spleen. We don't stigmatize people who need dialysis for a diseased/malfunctioning kidney. Why are we so harsh on people with brain issues that impact their behaviour? They're physically ill, too. The body part in question is the brain.

Thank you! Finally...WHY does it have to mental illness? It does imply choice where as physical illness does not.

My depression from this injury is a physical problem in my brain...it's not a choice. The paranoia, another unwanted gift from this injury, is a physical problem in my brain. I've never had paranoia before. Who would choose this?

There is such stigma tied to anything referred to as MENTAL ILLNESS (said in a low echoing voice).

I feel shame and guilt because of my injury and everything with it. I feel like society will not treat me the same as before. I have experienced this with medical people that knew my condition. If someone is not with me is the only times I have problems and I'm rarely alone. I don't go to those places anymore. :mad: nope, never again

Jace

Maybe self doubt was not the right term... shame and guilt is very much a great way to describe the way I feel....

This thread made me feel better, for a while anyway. When I have a good day, I also question whether I really have PCS. When co-workers ask how I am, I always say that I am getting better slowly and it is obvious they think I am weird or faking. I could say that the neurologist said there was a possibility that I will never get better? As the days go by, it is hard not to think about things that I can't do and may never do again. Things like running to get out of the rain, roller coasters, riding my bike, or simply walking without a fear of falling again. My situation is impossible to explain to almost everyone I know. I am so thankful for this forum.