Navigating the Books with a Brain Injury: My PCS University Survival Checklist

Managing university life with Post-Concussion Syndrome (PCS) often feels like a full-time job on top of your actual studies. When I was navigating my terms, I quickly realized that "pushing through" wasn't an option—I had to adapt.

Whether you are dealing with light sensitivity, chronic migraines, or noise triggers, here is the essential checklist of what helped me survive (and thrive) in daily student life.

🏛️ The Academic "Must-Dos"

Don’t wait until you’re falling behind to ask for help. Being proactive is the best way to protect your GPA and your health.

• Academic Concessions: Talk to your academic advising office as soon as possible. Instead of trying to white-knuckle it through a concussion, let them know your situation early.

• Accessibility Services: Every school has an accessibility centre. Register with them to get formal accommodations like:

  • Extended time for exams and assignments.

  • A private, quiet room for writing exams.

  • Access to a professional notetaker.

• The "Appendix 8" (For BC Students): If you are in British Columbia and on student loans, make sure to fill out Appendix 8. This qualifies you for permanent disability/persistent or prolonged disability status, which opens doors to specialized grants and funding for assistive technology (like noise-canceling headphones).

👓 Managing Light & Screens

Fluorescent library lights and bright laptop screens are often the biggest hurdles in a

classroom.

• f.lux & Nightmode: Use the f.lux extension on your browser to dim your screen and remove blue light. Keep "Nightmode" toggled on for both your phone and laptop 24/7.

• FL-41 Lenses: These rose-tinted glasses are specifically designed to filter out the blue-green light that triggers migraines. You can find them at Zenni Optical or TheraSpecs.

• Prism Glasses: If you're struggling with "visual snow" or tracking, see a neuro-vision optometrist. While these can act as a "band-aid," they are life-saving for getting through a lecture while you work on vision therapy.

• Satin Eye Masks: For when the light sensitivity is too much. I found some great ones at the UBC Maker’s Market—they are much gentler on the skin during a migraine.

🎧 Managing Sound & Environments

University campuses are loud. Managing your "noise budget" is key to avoiding an end-of-day crash.

• Noise-Canceling Headphones: Essential for transit or walking through a busy student union building. I use AirPod Pros (funded via Assistive Technology BC) and Sony WH-1000XM4s.

• Loop Earplugs: These are a total lifesaver.

  • Loop Quiet: Best for high-noise environments or studying.

  • Loop Engage: Best for class—they take the "edge" off the noise while still letting you hear the professor.

• WeatherX Barometric Earplugs: If you find your migraines get worse when it rains (common in BC!), WeatherX earplugs help manage the pressure changes in your ear. They even come with an app to warn you when a pressure shift is coming.

🧊 Physical Relief & Daily Maintenance

Sometimes the best tools are the simplest ones.

• Headache Ice Wraps: I wake up with migraines most mornings, and I’ve found that a wrap-around ice pack is far more effective than heat. Keeping one in the freezer for immediate use is a game-changer.

• Blood Sugar & Snacks: I noticed my migraines spike when my blood sugar drops. I always carry rice crackers or small snacks to keep my levels stable throughout long lectures.

• Hydration (The POTS Connection): If you’ve developed POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) post-concussion, hydration isn't just a suggestion—it’s a requirement. Keep a dedicated water bottle with you at all times.

• Medication Organizer: Use a pill container for your supplements, vitamins, and "abortive" migraine meds so you’re never caught without them on campus.

✨ Final Thought: Know Your Triggers

Everyone’s recovery is different. For me, it was bright lights and overstimulating environments. Take the time to track what sets you off. Once you identify your triggers, you can use this checklist to build a "buffer" between you and the environment.

-Chloe Kim

Founder

Mind & Brain Student Network BC