Hey my TBI Community!
Let’s talk about something wild that can happen after a brain injury. Confabulation is when your brain fills in the blanks with stories that feel completely real even when they aren’t.
What is Confabulation? The Science Behind It
Confabulation happens when the brain pieces together information to fill memory gaps. It is common in people with brain injuries, especially when areas like the frontal lobe or hippocampus are affected. These areas are crucial for memory and reasoning. The brain tries to make sense of incomplete memories by creating false but believable stories. This isn’t lying. Just like you when you are dreaming...you cannot tell the difference between reality and fiction. It is your brain trying to connect the dots with faulty wiring.
My Story: A Relationship That Never Happened
So here is a funny and awkward example. After my brain injury, weeks later I was absolutely certain I was dating this girl. In my mind we had dates, shared laughs, kisses and had a full-on relationship. Well, what's the catch? We weren’t dating at all. I found out the hard way when I brought up “our relationship” and got hit with a confused, “Wait… what?” (That hurt) Imagine being dumped from a relationship that never existed. My brain had written an entire rom-com without consulting the cast.
How to Talk to Someone with Confabulation:
Be Patient: These memories feel real so approach with kindness.
Gently Correct: Say something like, “That’s not how I remember it but let’s figure it out together.”
Stay Calm: Confabulation isn’t deception. It is a brain glitch.
Ways to Help Someone with Confabulation:
Journals: Writing down events helps separate real experiences from false memories.
Photo Timelines: Pictures with dates can anchor real memories.
Routine Check-Ins: Regular chats with loved ones help maintain accurate recall.
Confabulation can cause confusion and awkward moments but understanding the science behind it makes it easier to respond with patience and empathy. If I ever mention a wild road trip to Vegas we never took just smile and know my brain really committed to the dream.
Stay patient stay understanding and always keep a sense of humor.
Comentarios