I am new and have questions about my own diagnosis and prognosis.

In a car accident on 10/8/14; don't specifically recall impact but given mechanics of it likely hit left side of head on window. Went to ER later complaining of neck pain, arm weakness, and massive headache. Did Cspine CT scan but no concussion protocol.

I do not recall much of next few weeks. Wife says I became withdrawn, apathetic, but turn angry if she tried to draw me out. Complained of headaches 3-4 nights/week. Became overwhelmed w stress, fatigue, and paranoia about losing job. I also would be confused by simple questions at times.

I went to psychologist about 3 weeks after MVA for 1st time ever. My mother was diagnosed with terminal cancer in June (4 mos pre-MVA) w 12-18 mos to live. I knew there was a problem and thought that was it.

Then about 3 weeks ago I felt the "fogginess" begin to clear up only to realize I can't remember much of the past couple months. And I now see my trouble focusing and understanding difficult concepts. I lose words, simple words... Like "car" or "sign" or "curb." Anxiety, stress, and depression are still challenges.

I told my psychologist about this and he started asking more about the accident and finally began putting all my symptoms together and diagnosed PCS.

I see a neurologist on 1/14/15. I saw my PCP last week who did an exam and noted definite short and long term memory problems and "cognitive deficits." I get a brain MRI on 12/30. Meanwhile, spine dr found problems at C5-6 from MVA and I'm doing PT.

So here are my questions if you can help:

1. The Psych keeps warning me this could still be something other than PCS and than scares me even more because atleast now my wife and I had a name for it. And the stuff we had read said you fully recover in 3-12 months. So how consistent or inconsistent is my experience with those with PCS on here?

2. Again, we read recovery in 3-12 months. I am a young lawyer, practicing about 8 years now, and I just started a new job with a firm I love doing work I really love in March. But it looks like the reality from your experiences is not as tidy as that 3-12 month package, is that true????? Should I stop thinking this is only temporary and start preparing for the long haul?

Thank you in advance for your help and answers... (And please don't crucify me because I'm a lawyer!!!)