I'm so glad that mayo clinic connect has created a space to talk about the stresses and consequences of being seriously ill. I have been personally affected by two family members that had ICU admissions. My grandmother is still struggling with physical debility and memory issues since her ICU stay - even years since her illness. My husband had a very brief stay in the ICU after a major health scare and I can tell you, even as a healthy young man, the stay traumatized him and affected him psychologically long after he recovered physically - it is something he will never forget.

I'm looking forward to hear others' experiences, what works well to cope, and personal struggles and triumphs. No one plans for a stay in the intensive care, but those that find themselves there have to deal with how life changing the experience can be.