Originally Posted by
ricohman
Treating the post crash routine as serious as I did my training is golden advice. I'm depressed and not eating right, no appetite.
That's not unusual after an accident or any kind of trauma, especially if there was a concussion (which the helmet damage indicates). Concussions can have lasting consequences, so don't ignore changes in mood or behavior that seem uncharacteristic for you. That's where it's handy to have family, friends, etc., to give us a little feedback if we seem out of sorts after an accident.
Since you're aware of it, be sure to discuss it with your wife and doctor. Depending on how your recovery progresses it might even be a good idea to get into counseling with a psychologist or appropriate group. I did that myself 15 years ago, about six months after a wicked car wreck that busted up my back and neck. I'd begun to experience tunnel vision while driving in traffic and road rage over minor incidents that I'd usually shrug off. I knew this wasn't like me, so I went into counseling for a couple of years, took the meds the staff psychiatrist prescribed for anxiety, etc. The psych doctor diagnosed it as PTSD, which surprised me. Going into therapy and taking meds for a couplafew years helped a lot. I gradually discontinued taking those about 10 years ago, so it's not necessarily a long term thing after an accident.
I was a little worried about how I'd react to bicycling in traffic again when I resumed riding last year. But everything's been okey-dokey. I feel as confident riding in traffic now as I did 30+ years ago when I cycle commuted almost daily. Better, in fact. I've lost my youthful quick temper and don't get my feathers ruffled over inadvertent stuff drivers do. Unfortunately my body and cycling speed have slowed down with age as well.
And opioid pain relievers can dull the appetite with some folks. But being unable to sleep due to pain ain't good either. Try to find a balance.