Why is there is often a personality change after ...

Hi,
I believe that when someone can see death from such a close distance only then one is able to realize what is really important and what is not, what is the main issues and what are the side unimportant issues, what to attend and what to ignor......  all in all it very often changes one's prespectives in life. 
Best regards,

I am an R.N. that recovers open heart patients after surgery. Sometimes the "near death" experience can evoke a change, but there is a physiological reason for these personality changes. During surgery the patient is placed on a heart lung bypass machine that takes over the heart's job of pumping blood. This machine pumps blood at a constant pressure (non-pulsatile) while the heart pumps and relaxes creating an uneven pressure. Researchers believe that this combined with extreme hypothermia during the procedure causes an actual change in the neuro transmitters of the brain. These changes are often manifested by depression, insomnia, and short term memory loss, but other changes may be noticed by family. The good news is that in most cases the patient will return to their old self. You should see a full recovery after no longer than a year. If depression or insomnia is the problem go see your primary physician. Anti depressants and sleep medications are of great benifit. Memory loss should correct itself. Be supportive. Your loved one is still under extreme stress and needs your support. Unfortunately these changes are often not explained to families leading to even more stress. I hope this helps you. Good luck.