Emerging from the Darkness
A Hopeful Guide to Brain Injury Healing and Recovery
Currently, I am reading seven books. One classic, three self-help books, one on octopuses, and two fantasy romances. Additionally, I am able to recall where I left off and what I have read.
I love to read and learn new things, and in the past would spend hours on the computer reading and researching information. However, there was a time when I thought I would never be able to read a book again.
After my brain injury, I found the computer screen too bright. When I scrolled up and down on the computer screen, I felt dizzy and nauseated. After 5-10 minutes, I would be squinting my eyes as I rubbed my aching head.
I was frustrated by my headaches, dizziness, and fatigue after reading a book for 5-10 minutes. I felt discouraged, especially when I couldn’t remember what I had just read. If I tried to push through, I would find myself falling asleep for hours. Those were truly lonely and difficult days.
Enjoy a drink at an ice bar in Stockholm, Sweden.
What I did not realize at the time was that after 5-10 minutes, my brain needed a break. My brain was healing and lacked the energy for learning and reading at that time.
As your brain recovers, it’s important to recognize that its stamina is limited for now. This is a normal part of the healing journey. By honoring your brain’s needs and giving it breaks before it becomes overwhelmed, you demonstrate self-compassion and understanding. Each small step you take supports your brain’s recovery.
To measure your brain stamina, set a timer and start reading or working on a computer. When your focus breaks, your eyes grow tired, or your concentration wanes, check the timer and note the time. This is when your brain will need a break.
It’s best to take a break before you’re tired. If you notice that you’re irritable or any of the other symptoms, take a break.
Now that you know when to take a break and how often, set a reminder alarm, so you don’t forget to take your brain breaks.
At least every three to six months, repeat this test to measure your brain stamina on various tasks, such as reading, computer work, or project work. Note your cognitive stamina and reset reminder alarms accordingly.
As your brain heals, you’ll likely find these time frames expanding, a sign of the remarkable progress your brain is making. Celebrate each improvement, no matter how small, and remember that hope, patience, and perseverance are powerful companions on your journey to recovery.
Take care, get better, get stronger,
Kelly Tuttle
Brain-Loving Advocate
P.S. As a brain injury survivor, I understand the challenges of reintegration into the workforce. If you’re also a survivor looking to return to work, please visit my website for my online program: Return to Work and Life After a Brain Injury.
You can also find my book, After the Crash: How to Keep Your Job, Stay in School, and Live Life After a Brain Injury, and additional resources.
My book, After the Crash, is also on Audible.
My book, After the Crash: How to Keep Your Job, Stay in School, and Live Life After a Brain Injury, can be found on Amazon or at your favorite independent bookstore
I created a journal just for you! Check out My Brain Injury Recovery Journal