When an injury or illness is validated by visible symptoms, no one questions whether it is real. To do so would be insensitive and rude. As well, when the world around us can see the injury with their own eyes, they are more likely to extend compassion and understanding. For example, if you approached a store entrance on crutches, a stranger might hold the door for you.
Now imagine that you have an injury that no one can see. On the outside, you look perfectly healthy and capable. Yet inside, you struggle to remember your birth year. Headaches, mental fatigue and restless nights are a normal part of your life. On certain days, sheer exhaustion and overwhelming gloom drive you to isolate from others for no apparent reason. Still, even those who are closest to you insist that you seem “fine.” They have no idea how hard you are trying just to keep up.
This is just a glimpse into what is reality for many brain injury survivors. Continue reading
