[mrsmith]

Unfortunately in October I have to return to school, this is non negotiable, as I have already taken a large time off.


I have gotten accommodations including being able to be a bit late to avoid very crowded hallways, as well as being able to leave class a bit late for the same reason.


Currently I have been trying to live as normally as possible: going out quite often with friends, going on fairly long walks.

I still set time during the day for quiet rest, and limit my physical exertion very much. I have experienced a small increased in symptoms but they are easily manageable with quiet rest or Tylenol.


Unfortunately in a crowded school, the odd bump and over stimulation is unavoidable, is there any way I can prepare for this in the upcoming months?

[redoslingberg]

I would definitely recommend ear plugs for while you're traveling to your classes.

[berkeleybrain]

What are some of your other symptoms with which you are dealing?

I know that for myself I like to wear sunglasses and a visor to focus on a small visual field to keep the vertigo feeling down.

To limit over taxing the brain, I would make an appointment with the Accommodations office at the school. You can ask for several things:

1. Note taker
2. Increased time for assignments, papers, exams, etc. (time and a half)
3. Reduced load (only essential assignments? not make work, but this is often a sensitive issue but worth asking a professor/teacher about)
4. Taking exams at the ADA office which is often quieter than the classroom

For executive functioning overall and for pcs/mtbi students:

I find note cards helpful for daily to do lists. There is a great book called "The Organized Student" that shows how to organize your binder, weekly class lists of assignments and a file for home (executive functioning).

For poor vision after pcs/mtbi:

I know that there are software programs that will read text, email, etc. (I have visual problems since my mtbi/pcs) and it may help students as well.


For aural processing issues after pcs/mtbi:

There were some great suggestions for people with meniere's disease and sensitivity issues (the book _Too Bright/ Too Loud_ addresses this). Sit in the front of the classroom and to the left or to the right will help weed out extra noises.

I think that the brain will begin to adjust as it gets accommodated to new thresholds, but it is quite painful to adjust.

Most universities are required to work with students with disabilities, but you are required to document your injuries and this can be often tedious and tiresome.

Take care, and I will track down these books. I had fantasies of returning to work, which I cannot. Hoping someday soon....

[mrsmith]

Cognitively I am fine. I really don't need extra time or anything.

It's just the overstimulation. Yes ear plugs are probably a good idea, what about trying to build up a tolerance for stimulation before hand?

I don't really get visually overstimulated either, sound is the real problem for me, and I'm pretty sensitive to jolts and stuff.

I can handle being in small groups of people fine but I have no idea about being around hundreds.