I had grand plans to reveal my newly organized pantry and freezer, but The Crash came. Living with a traumatic brain injury means you can never take your memory, endurance, ability to communicate, etc. for granted. I had a nice run of about two weeks where I was able to organize, declutter, and decorate.
This morning, my brain needed a break.
It's hard to explain what it's like when I'm in crash mode. If I catch it early and give myself the rest I need, it's a moderate headache, sensitivity to light and sound, fatigue, and a foggy mind for a day or so. If I push too hard, it's a severe headache, inability to tolerate any light or sound, exhaustion, and aphasia (loss of ability to find the words you want to speak). When I get to the point where I'm easily frustrated and I don't seem to be communicating well (because I'm asked to repeat what I'm saying, or I have to re-type as sentence four times to correct typos and make it clear, or my family look at me like I'm speaking a new language), I know it's time to put myself to bed.
I've learned to listen to my body. Or, at least I'm learning. A few days ago, I made this reminder to hang on our frig. The words came from a friend's Facebook wall. Life giving advice.
Linked to Pondered Primed Perfected
Wow! I am a physical therapy student and have seen a few brain injuries in the very beginning stages. It is great to see that you have figured out ways to stay in control and on top of your health when dealing with a TBI.
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