Jane - I do the same - stay up to date on peer-reviewed research. My frustration there, is that it mostly seems to be focused on proving its existence and the need for more research. Yes, we need research on how to treat it! I, too, feel like a different person. Every day I seem to face a new challenge from my cognitive impairment and it is frustrating. You are young - which makes it so much more difficult. I did notice, though, in your post, that you are a talented writer. I would encourage you to consider pursuing this. You might be the one to reach those that need to hear our stories - all similar but unique, all in need of answers, validation and encouragement.

I did not sense I was becoming anything creative until something interesting happened. My 30+ year old disabled daughter said she wanted to try painting. I told her I would try it too! I have NEVER painted outside of art class in high school. I tried to create a beautiful picture once for my mom (while in high school), and when she saw it, she asked, "What are you, 5?" So, at 63 I tried it. Viewing you tube tutorials showed me I knew NOTHING! I was anxious and terrified. I very quickly realized I am not an artist. However, I also realized I not only enjoyed it, my work wasn't horrible. I also took up crocheting again. Crocheting, which I've been doing since I was 10, pushed my brain to its limits. It takes me way longer with lots of re-dos and rip-outs. However, those two things have allowed me to fill that creative need I was missing since not being able to continue in my job. You are young and talented. Your creativity might not look the same as before, but it's there, waiting to be discovered.