Hi all.
I've just discovered this place and wanted to introduce myself and share a bit of my story. I was involved in a head-on collision in 2009 whereby I hit my head (front right, forehead) leading to concussion and 10 stitches. Following weeks of recovery, I started to realise that I couldn't visualise anything, couldn't generate images, couldn't recall events in my life (or more to the point, couldn't associate imagery with the narrative of those events), couldn't dream/daydream or have nightmares. I tried to explain this to various professionals, with the general consensus being I had post-concussion syndrome and that it should improve with time. However, 14 years on and it's not improved at all, becoming worse as medium/long-term memory has worsened as stories fade without the imagery that usually supports it.
Basically, I had to learn to deal with this myself as there was no handbook or reference manual for losing one's 'mind's eye'. Though it was more than that, it had a considerable impact in terms of learning (I was primarily a visual learner), usually replaying a skill or learned task in my mind until I had it locked away. Other things that I would have taken for granted had all but disappeared, such a recalling a map/route or the face of a family member, or even regaling friends with stories of the past because the story is missing. I don't know how many others have 'acquired aphantasia' rather than living with this since birth, but I must admit, it's a pain in the arse and does have considerable impact on your day-to-day life, having lost something that was once to vivid and tangible. That said, I remain optimistic and keep looking for ways to develop myself and improve. Also, I've recently started taking Lions Mane Capsules in the hope that this may repair whatever damage was caused at impact, be interested to hear if anyone has tried this or other supplements.
Other than that, I'd been keen to hear from others in this position, or anyone who has an interest is this area. Thanks all:)