Non-medical advice for those dealing with coma, how proceed? This is a personal account, always consult medical professionals before trying any treatment. I came out of coma in 2012, after 3 months. I believe these things contributed to my recovery, many say I’m back…

Talk

Communicate about the past to combat memory loss, discuss shared or significant events, the details. They might have forgotten, but not completely I suspect. I had forgotten much, including my native language of English. I only spoke German when I came out. Deep down English was still my first language. The hospital arranged lessons and it quickly came back. The spark of discussion reignited my identity. By talking about things the survivor should remember, you help them become themselves again.

Actions

If possible do typical activities, what was normal before the coma. I tried to follow my instincts, but was often being protected, independence was beneficial. That requires trust, but I couldn’t get into too much trouble. My mobility was quite poor, I wouldn’t allow that to prevent me. I just needed a walking stick.

I often wondered what I should do, what can I do? I followed my instincts, even when those around me said I shouldn’t do that. I’d take public transport to places on my own, explore a world that was once familiar. Unprompted, memories returned. “I once lived here, frequented there, studied at that place…”

Treatment

A questioned medical treatment is hyperbaric oxygen therapy, but it seemed to help me. Just the act of getting treatment was positive, psychologically encouraging. Once a week for 3 months, I sat in an oxygen chamber to breathe high levels of pure oxygen. Apparently the brain uses oxygen to heal. After every session I felt a bit clearer. Afterwards I did more stuff than previously, for example I attempted to cook dinner. I do partially attribute my recovery to hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Questioned by some, perhaps just the affirmation of treatment provoked recovery.

Final Thoughts

Indeed I have focused on recovery. I moved to Singapore, got married, took up writing, travelled to around 15 countries. I simply wanted to resume living, and didn’t want to become a burden because of the coma. I hope to be a true version of myself, although I do feel changed. This new version is bedding down, I have nothing to compare. Often there seemed to be no progress at all, even a backward step. Sometimes you must go back to move forward, to refresh. Clear the decks and start anew.

They all say I am so much better today than when I first came out. Back then apparently I didn’t make much sense. I couldn’t remember what we were talking about. I’d lost short term memory abilities. Initially I spoke German, apparently I was fluent, I wasn’t previously. Today I can follow a conversation, contribute ideas. I have written much, an activity that demonstrates memory, and awareness.