Stories

Lauren Beriman

Hi, I’m Lauren. For years, I felt like something in my head just didn’t feel right but I never knew it could be traced back to the head injuries I suffered as a child. It wasn’t until much later that I connected the dots and discovered I’d been living with ongoing concussion symptoms since I was six years old. Misdiagnoses made life confusing and challenging, but they also shaped the person I am today. I’m incredibly grateful to the Concussion Legacy Foundation for walking with me every step of this journey.

I spent my childhood in constant motion. Flipping on trampolines, flying down slides, pedalling my bike everywhere and leaping from one adventure to the next. My first head injury happened when I fell from a tree, and there were several more incidents after that. I often experienced migraines, dizziness, insomnia, and dehydration. Symptoms I now know are common among people with concussions. Although only three concussions were formally recorded, looking back, there were likely many more. At school, I had trouble focusing and often experienced dizzy spells, slower thinking and response times and gut health issues. I found it hard to sit still and was often in trouble for talking too much, as I often sought assistance from peers to complete tasks.

In May 2024, I sustained my most serious concussion when a car reversed into me while I was walking.The accident was traumatic and led to diagnoses of Complex PTSD and Functional Neurological Disorder (FND). The combination of multiple concussions and that event had a significant impact on my mental health, causing depression and long periods of exhaustion. I became erratic and distant, spending months feeling disconnected from myself. The most painful part was waking up one day and realising I no longer recognised the person I had become and then having to live with the memories of things I did while dissociating. It’s a pain I wouldn’t wish on anyone, and it was agonising to talk about.

Never underestimate the impact of a single conversation. I have some very special people in my life who have stood by me even in the darkest times and shifted the trajectory of my recovery toward a positive one. I had worked in education for 15 years, a career that brought me immense joy and purpose. I loved supporting students and helping them learn and grow. But after my most recent concussion, I was deemed unable to return to teaching a heartbreaking reality after dedicating so much of my life to education.

Now, I use my experience to support others. Many people find it difficult to talk about their symptoms and because I’ve lived through it myself, I can help them understand what’s happening and guide them through recovery. Research shows that concussions can disrupt brain chemicals such as dopamine and serotonin, which explains mood changes and emotional instability. That’s why it’s so important to talk about both the mental and emotional impacts of concussion, not just the physical ones.

During my recovery, I learned how vital connection, perspective, and patience are. Spending time in hydrotherapy with people from all walks of life reminded me of the power of resilience, gratitude, and community. Healing takes time, self-compassion, and consistent care.

I’ve always been well-travelled, an adrenaline junkie and very social. I love exploring new places, seeking the next big experience, and connecting with people. Through my concussions it became hard, and for a long time I couldn’t do those things I loved. But after making significant progress in my recovery, I’m finally able to get back to the travel, thrills, and friendships that feed my spirit.

My Tips:

Seek professional care early: Start with your GP and ask about a concussion clinic. These clinics provide access to a range of allied health professionals. Recovery is multifaceted, covering physical, emotional, and neurological care.
Listen to your body: Support your neck and nervous system, manage stress, and pace yourself.
Be your own advocate: Track your symptoms, take one step at a time, and reach out for support. Healing is possible, and you’re not alone.
Engage your network: Recovery involves emotional, cognitive, and social support. Communicate with healthcare providers and prioritise self-care.

My mission is to use my lived experience to advocate for survivors of domestic violence, concussion, and FND. Sharing my journey allows me to support others, raise awareness and help people understand that while concussion recovery can be complex, it is possible with patience, guidance, and community.

If my story resonates with you please don’t hesitate to reach out, I’m always here for a chat!

Here for you always,

Lauren Beriman