What ‘Brain Fog’ Feels Like

Brain fog can be one of the hardest symptoms of chronic illness to explain.

But it feels exactly how it sounds, like a fog that exists between my brain and the outside world.

It makes everything feel less clear, and it affects every aspect of my life.

When I’m in conversation, I may just seem a bit introverted, but often I’m not speaking because I’m having trouble finding my words.

It doesn’t matter how hard I try to focus or how hard I try to be organized, I still sometimes find myself feeling completely lost in a familiar space.

When you see me, I act and look fine, when really I’m in a state of constantly feeling hungover, struggling to formulate words and remember everyday tasks.

Brain fog isn’t just having trouble with calculations or not being as quick witted as usual.

It affects my life in many different ways and has consequences that may reach beyond just a simple forgetful moment.

So when someone is having a “foggy” day, grant them a little extra grace and patience.

By Katie Kreitzer and Ashley Seymour