In my case, the psychological effects of my stroke have been far, far worse than the physical effects.
I stroked with a burst AVM (bleed) eleven years ago at the age of 51. I was awarded a very small disability pension about two years later after struggling to try to work.
I have been struggling with depression and anger (as well as severe physical pain and chronic fatigue) ever since.
For about two years, I consulted a psychiatrist but after 40 sessions the best he could come up with was "Well, if I had gone through what you've been through, I would be depressed too!"
Today is my 62nd birthday and I am spending it as I have spent most of the last 11 years, struggling to find a place in the world.