Can Encephalitis Lead to Personality Changes?
At the age of 13, I (17, female) received a diagnosis of Bickerstaff Brainstem Encephalitis. Reflecting on my personality from that time or earlier feels like an impossible task; it’s as if I transformed completely following my illness. My sister, who I’ve asked about this, concurs with my view. She believes that I am a very different person now compared to my younger self. It’s not a negative change; rather, I feel as though I developed a completely new persona. My mannerisms and speech have altered significantly, and even during my initial recovery, I exhibited a different demeanor. (According to my sister, I became much funnier!) I often describe it as if the old me ceased to exist when I was 13, and a new individual emerged about three months later. Now, I am nearing a complete recovery. If I didn’t divulge my past to someone, they would have no way of knowing about my previous struggles, aside from a faint scar left from the swelling. Despite this progress, I sometimes find it strange to view my life as consisting of two distinct phases. Has anyone else experienced something similar? My concern stems from living in a small, rural town where I haven’t encountered anyone with a similar experience. I lack personal contacts who can relate to my situation. Is it common to feel this way after such an ordeal?
Answers (1)
2/4/2026, 9:50:37 AM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to feel a sense of transformation after experiencing a significant health challenge like Bickerstaff Brainstem Encephalitis. Personality changes following such an illness can occur, and you are not alone in having these feelings or experiences. Many people report shifts in personality, behavior, and even cognitive function after brain-related illnesses or injuries.
Explanation
Encephalitis affects the brain's functioning, and recovery can lead to various changes in emotional expression, personality, and interpersonal interactions. These changes can stem from a combination of biological factors (like alterations in brain pathways) and psychological adaptations to new circumstances. Your sister's observations about your altered mannerisms and humor suggest that your brain's recovery led to new traits and behaviors, which many people find reflects the ways they’ve grown from their experiences.
Feeling like you have two distinct phases in your life is more common than you might think. This can be a way to compartmentalize your experiences and understand the fundamental changes that have occurred.
Next Steps
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Reflect on Your Experiences: Write down your thoughts and feelings about the changes you've noticed. This can help you articulate your journey and provide a clearer picture of your emotions surrounding these transformations.
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Engage with Communities: Seek out support forums, online communities, or social media groups focused on encephalitis or brain injury recovery. This will allow you to connect with others who may have experienced similar changes in personality or behavior.
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Consider Professional Guidance: If you’re feeling overwhelmed by these thoughts or if the changes affect your day-to-day life, speaking with a mental health professional can be beneficial. They can provide strategies for coping with and understanding your feelings.
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Communicate with Trusted Friends and Family: Share your thoughts with those who are close to you. They might help provide additional insights about your changes and reassure you that personal growth is a normal part of recovery.
Remember, it’s okay to have a mixed bag of feelings about your identity post-illness. Embrace the person you have become; it's a testament to your resilience and recovery. If you need more support or resources, don't hesitate to ask.
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