Sleep problems after brain injury

Poor sleep is common after brain injury and can worsen fatigue, mood, and concentration. Small routine changes often help.

Build a wind-down routine

• Keep consistent bed and wake times.
• Do calm activities before bed.
• Dim lights and reduce screens in the evening.

Optimise the bedroom

• Keep it dark, cool, and quiet.
• Reserve the bed for sleep.
• Reduce clock-watching.

Daytime habits

• Get natural light in the morning.
• Move during the day, but not too late.
• Limit long or late naps.

If sleep stays hard

• Avoid relying on alcohol to sleep.
• Track your sleep to spot patterns.
• Ask your team about further support.

How this site helps

You don’t have to do everything at once. Pick one small idea from above and try it this week.

• Turn a goal into a daily habit with Practice.
• See the evidence behind these ideas in Research.
• Practise the underlying skill with a calm game.

Remember: this is general education, not medical advice. Your clinician knows your situation best.