When the Brain Struggles to Switch Off: How Traumatic Brain Injury Disrupts Sleep Patterns August 25, 2025 Sleep is one of the body’s most powerful healing tools. It helps restore energy, regulate mood, and consolidate memory. But after a traumatic brain injury (TBI), many people find that sleep—something once taken for granted—becomes one of their biggest struggles. In fact, research suggests that nearly half of people who experience a TBI go on to develop a sleep disorder.1 Why TBI Affects Sleep The brain is the control centre for sleep. It regulates the body’s internal clock, breathing rhythms, and the delicate balance of hormones and neurotransmitters that help us fall and stay asleep.2 When the brain is injured—whether through a concussion, car accident, fall, or more severe trauma—those processes can be disrupted. Sleep disturbances after TBI can take many forms. Some people experience insomnia, lying awake at night or waking frequently.3 Others develop hypersomnia, where they sleep excessively yet never feel refreshed.3 Conditions like sleep apnea, restless legs syndrome, or parasomnias (such as sleepwalking) may also emerge.3 Timing can be affected too, with the body clock shifting out of sync and leading to delayed sleep patterns.3 Interestingly, these symptoms can evolve over time. For example, a person might initially sleep excessively in the first week or two after a concussion, only to later develop ongoing insomnia.2 In contrast, individuals with more severe brain injuries may experience persistent hypersomnia, possibly linked to damage in brain regions like the hypothalamus, which regulates wakefulness.2 The Ripple Effect of Poor Sleep Poor sleep after a brain injury isn’t just frustrating—it can slow down recovery. Lack of rest worsens fatigue, mood swings, and irritability.2 It also makes concentration and memory problems more pronounced, which can already be challenges after TBI.2 People with untreated sleep issues are more likely to have accidents, perform poorly at work or school, and experience heightened anxiety.2 Some underlying factors can make things worse. Pain, headaches, medications, and even pre-existing sleep disorders can all interfere with rest.2 Because of this, it’s not always straightforward to pinpoint the exact cause of sleep problems after a TBI. Pathways to Better Sleep The good news is that support is available. Treatment often starts with sleep hygiene strategies—keeping a consistent bedtime, limiting screen time before bed, exercising during the day, and creating a calm sleep environment.3 For persistent difficulties, therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBT-I), relaxation techniques, or light therapy may help.3 In some cases, doctors may prescribe medications, carefully chosen to avoid side effects that could worsen recovery.3 Why Seeking Help Matters It’s easy to dismiss sleep struggles as “just part of recovery,” but untreated sleep disorders can prolong healing and reduce quality of life.1 Because sleep is not only a symptom but also a driver of recovery, getting it back on track is essential. If you or someone you love is struggling with sleep after a head injury, don’t ignore it. Speak with a doctor, who may recommend a sleep study or personalised treatment plan. Addressing sleep is not just about getting through the night—it’s about giving the brain its best chance to heal. How Sove CPAP Clinic Can Help Founded in 2008, Sove CPAP Clinic has grown to become a leading provider of respiratory and sleep services and products in Australia, with over 60 clinics nationwide. Our comprehensive clinical team includes Respiratory & Sleep Specialists, Sleep Technologists, and CPAP Consultants, ensuring that you receive comprehensive and personalised care. All medical procedures, including sleep studies and lung function testing, are bulk billed to all Australians, with minimal wait time. If you would like to speak to a Respiratory & Sleep Physician, book a bulk-billed sleep study, or seek advice for your sleep apnea, you can reach us at 1300 76 29 39 or info@thecpapclinic.com.au. ALWAYS FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. CPAP is used for Obstructive Sleep Apnea treatment. When considering whether a sleep study or CPAP is right for you, speak to your doctor. Medicare criteria and T&Cs apply. References Aoun, Raissa, et al. “Impact of Traumatic Brain Injury on Sleep: An Overview.” Nature and Science of Sleep, vol. 11, Aug. 2019, pp. 131–140, pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6707934/, https://doi.org/10.2147/nss.s182158. “Sleep & Traumatic Brain Injury.” Practical Neurology, 2025, practicalneurology.com. Accessed 25 Aug. 2025. “Sleep and Traumatic Brain Injury | Model Systems Knowledge Translation Center (MSKTC).” msktc.org.
