Honest review of Sex with a Brain Injury: On Concussion and Recovery

by Annie Liontas (Author)

Updated at: 18/01/2025

In Sex with a Brain Injury, Annie Liontas delivers a powerful memoir exploring the profound impact of multiple concussions on her life. This deeply personal account transcends the physical pain, delving into the emotional and relational fallout of head trauma. Liontas weaves together personal narrative with historical context, examining the cultural and societal implications of brain injury, particularly for women and the LGBTQ+ community. Through insightful reflections on love, identity, and intimacy, she reveals the complexities of recovery and the unexpected connections forged through shared suffering. This is a moving testament to resilience, offering hope and understanding to those navigating the challenges of brain injury and its aftermath.

Sex with a Brain Injury: On Concussion and Recovery

4.7 / 24 ratings

Review Sex with a Brain Injury

Annie Liontas’s Sex with a Brain Injury isn't just a memoir; it's a revelation. It's a deeply personal and meticulously researched exploration of living with traumatic brain injury (TBI) that resonated with me on a profound level, even though my own experiences weren't identical to hers. The book’s power lies in its unflinching honesty and the seamless weaving together of personal narrative with historical context and insightful research.

What struck me most was Liontas's ability to make the invisible visible. She doesn't shy away from the messy, frustrating, and often terrifying realities of living with a brain injury – the cognitive fog, the emotional volatility, the challenges in relationships, and the constant struggle to reclaim a sense of self. She eloquently portrays the feeling of being one of the "walking wounded," a phrase that perfectly encapsulates the invisible struggles faced by many TBI sufferers. This isn't just about physical recovery; it's about the painstaking reconstruction of identity, personality, and intimacy.

The book's strength isn't solely in its raw depiction of suffering, however. Liontas's writing is sharp, witty, and often surprisingly uplifting. She finds moments of humor and grace amidst the pain, demonstrating an incredible resilience and capacity for self-reflection. Her exploration of the historical context of brain injury, looking at figures like Henry VIII and Harriet Tubman, was unexpected yet incredibly enriching. It broadened my understanding of how TBI has affected individuals throughout history and highlighted the often-overlooked impact on marginalized communities.

The inclusion of her queer mother’s struggles with addiction also added another layer of complexity and depth. This interweaving of personal and familial trauma created a powerful narrative that resonated deeply, highlighting the interconnectedness of various forms of pain and the importance of finding ways to connect with others who understand. The title itself, while initially jarring, ultimately proved to be fitting, as it underscores the multifaceted impact of TBI on all aspects of life, including intimacy and relationships.

I found myself constantly nodding along, recognizing my own struggles and experiences reflected in Liontas’s words. The book validated my own journey in ways I hadn't anticipated. It made me feel less alone, less like a broken thing, and more understood. It's a testament to the strength of the human spirit, the power of connection, and the enduring capacity for love and resilience in the face of adversity. While challenging at times, Sex with a Brain Injury is ultimately a book that leaves you feeling empowered and hopeful. It's a must-read not only for those who have experienced TBI, but also for anyone who wants to understand the invisible wounds that can profoundly shape a life. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone seeking empathy, insight, and a powerful story of healing.