Yes, brain injury can play havoc with your social life, too.

I second Mark, you can't just will your way through these things. I tried the "just ignore it" stage - it was a disaster.

I've had to accept that there are some things I just can't handle anymore. A dance, with loud music, a crowd and strobe lights, would be way more than I could endure.

When I really have to go somewhere, I do what I can to make the situation more manageable. I use earplugs, take frequent breaks away from the action and depart as soon as possible.

If I feel that a gathering is just going to be too big and noisy for me, I make my regrets and than arrange to treat the host to a quiet alternative. For example, I just couldn't face my aunt and uncle's 50th anniversary bash, so I invited them to a brunch at our house. I do so much better in a familiar setting.

I also plan ahead for outings. I rest the day before and accept that I might need a few quiet days afterwards. Pretty much any busy day needs to be followed by a calm one.