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Please check out my COVID-19 concussion resources
Update: 4/22/20 for links to brain injury friendly activities for during the COVID-19 lockdown
You got a concussion diagnosis.
You got a concussion diagnosis.
Okay. It will be okay! Take a breath.
Okay. It will be okay! Take a breath.
80% of concussions get better within 2 weeks, so take some time to relax and be kind to yourself. Get lots of rest and make use of sunglasses and hats to block out light, and headphones for sound. Try not to worry about school, and really lean on others for support. Check out podcasts or audiobooks for concussion friendly entertainment (check out my podcast on my podcast tab! hear other concussion stories)
I didn't get better after 2 weeks and if you didn't either, and feel lost where to start, head over to my treatments page for a list of medications, therapies and eastern and natural remedies to try, as well as the local tab if you are in NJ for great doctors, chiropractors, psychiatrist and programs for TBI rehab and chronic pain. Connecting with others like you is the most important part (at least for me) it makes everything so much easier to know you aren't alone. Check out my podcast to hear others share their stories, and join the chat and facebook groups so that you can meet others in similar situations.
The Concussion Survival Kit
The Concussion Survival Kit
none of these products are sponsors of this project, they are things myself and my PCS friends cannot live without!
Day To Day
Day To Day
Noise Canceling Headphone
Noise Canceling Headphone
Noise canceling headphones (the shooting range type) are a lifesaver. I wear mine all the time, it helps with overstimulation and loud sounds. I sometimes wear earplugs under them for extra loud surroundings.
Sunglasses
Sunglasses
This is one of the obvious but I still need them. I was unable to find ones that were really dark, so I actually wear two pairs of not that dark glasses. The best glasses I have found were from the thrift store but any ones that you can find are good. Keep in mind that trying them on in a bright store is really tough so make sure you rest.
Water Bottle
Water Bottle
Hydration. Is. Key. Bring a water bottle around so that you remember to drink water. I would make sure I got my bottle out at every class so that when I got bored I would drink water. I decorated one of mine with stickers including a cute brain that one of the people in the chat made! (I love promoting other PCS creators)
baseball cap
baseball cap
A Baseball cap is great because it blocks the sun coming from the top that would sneak around sunglasses.
Ice/heat
Ice/heat
Ice is one of the only things that helps me. I wear an ice pack headband for much of the day. Other people have found ice on the neck helps, as well as a heating pad.
Chocolate
Chocolate
Chocolate is key because it is comforting. Our tradition is to have one dove chocolate square when we go out to walk the dogs. I've started saving the balled up wrappers and its a visual representation of how far I've come. Plus, chocolate helps after a dementor attack.
Podcasts/audiobooks
Podcasts/audiobooks
I can't tell you how great podcasts and audiobooks are. Podcasts are all free and there are tons of topics so you can find one you like. Podcasts and audiobooks are especially good for those with pcs and concussions because there is no visual component. When you are in the beginning stages and can't use screens, there is no temptation from podcasts. Plus I've learned SO much about forensics and criminal law (what I am interested in)
Earbuds
Earbuds
Pretty basic, but this goes with the podcasts, it will shut out other sounds, not as well as the headphones mentioned but allow you to be in a concussion-adapted world of the book, music or podcast you are listening to.
Going Out
Going Out
Ear Plugs
Ear Plugs
These earplugs were recommended to me (linked) and I love them! I actually wear them under my big headphones for even more sound blocking. It is great for events that have big speakers.
Emergency Pain Medication
Emergency Pain Medication
Either prescribed spike medication or OTC pills if they work for you, not for all the time, just for particularly bad headaches.
Peppermint OIl
This could be in a number of categories but I use peppermint oil when I am out as a backup. A lot of people really like it, more as a relaxing and calming smell, I don't know anyone totally healed by peppermint oil, but I'll take what I can get.
At Home
At Home
Spoons
Spoons
If you have never heard of the spoon theory I'd really recommend reading its origin (linked) it is a visual way for non spoonies to understand what it is like daily for those of us with chronic pain
Support
Support
This is KEY with any sort of chronic illness, pain etc. It is important to find people who can support you and be there for you. Parents- this means trying to understand the pain and the frustration with yourself as you can't do so much of what you used too. I have found our online chat group extremely helpful, it is linked below.
Dog
Dog
Dogs are really great for chemically making you feel better. I have two and they help so much. If you don't/can't have a dog, maybe try and see someone elses dog. (or cats that's cool too). Linked below is how to volunteer for SAVE (a local rescue for dogs and cats)
Bubble Bath
Bubble Bath
Bubble Baths are very relaxing and if you add some epsom salts (high in magnesium) it can help your headache.
Weighted Blanket
Weighted Blanket
Weighted blankets are very relaxing for most people. You can make them or buy them, though buying them can get pricey.
Face masks/self care
Face masks/self care
Green Tea
There is something really relaxing about tea.
Migraine Supplements
I personally haven't tried these but I have heard good things.
Google Sites
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