29 Stories From People Who Were Stuck In A Coma

Internet users on Reddit shared their personal experiences of being in a coma, revealing that reality often differs significantly from TV portrayals. Their stories include unexpected awakenings, like a woman who didn't remember giving birth, and profound realizations, such as a man who experienced vivid dreams that blended with reality. These anecdotes highlight the mysterious and often misunderstood nature of comas, challenging common perceptions and underscoring the deep human experience surrounding them.

The stories shared by individuals who have experienced comas reveal a range of long-term physical and cognitive challenges that can persist well after waking up1. These challenges vary widely among individuals but commonly include memory loss, physical weakness or loss of motor skills, and significant changes in personality or mental functions1.

1. Memory Loss and Cognitive Impairment: Many individuals report significant memory issues post-coma1. For example, one person forgot they had been pregnant and delivered a baby, while others lost years of memories or had trouble retaining new information after waking up. Cognitive impairments can also manifest as confusion or difficulty in processing information, as seen in a person who woke up thinking they were in a different city and time5.

2. Physical Weakness and Motor Skill Impairment: Physical challenges are also prevalent. Some individuals wake up with severe muscle weakness or atrophy, requiring them to relearn basic physical activities like walking or writing5. One story mentions a person who had to relearn how to breathe independently after being on a ventilator, highlighting the severity of physical debilitation that can occur5.

3. Personality Changes and Psychological Effects: Changes in personality and behavior are also noted, with some individuals experiencing alterations in their emotional responses or social behaviors1. For instance, one person became unusually aggressive and sexually disinhibited due to a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Psychological effects can include confusion about one’s identity and the passage of time, as well as profound existential experiences during the coma that lead to lasting changes in worldview and beliefs about life and death.

Overall, these stories underscore the complex and varied nature of recovery from a coma, involving challenges that are not only medical but also deeply personal and psychological1. Each individual’s journey is unique, often requiring a combination of physical rehabilitation, cognitive therapy, and psychological support to navigate the aftermath of such a profound and life-altering experience.