Why Can’t I Sleep After a Concussion?
Sleep problems are one of the most common and frustrating symptoms people experience after a concussion. From difficulty falling asleep to waking up multiple times during the night, these disruptions can make recovery feel even harder. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “why can’t I sleep after a concussion?”, you’re not alone.
Understanding Sleep Problems After Concussion
A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) that disrupts normal brain function. Because the brain regulates sleep and wake cycles, even a mild injury can affect your ability to get quality rest.
Common post-concussion sleep issues include:
Insomnia or difficulty falling asleep
Frequent night wakings
Oversleeping or needing excessive naps
Changes in circadian rhythm (feeling tired at unusual times)
Non-restorative sleep (waking up feeling unrefreshed)
It is estimated that 30-70% of post-traumatic brain injury (TBI) patient report difficulty sleeping in the first few weeks post injury.
Why Sleep Problems Happen After a Concussion
Brain Chemistry Changes
After a concussion, changes in neurotransmitters like melatonin and serotonin can alter the brain’s sleep-wake cycle, leading to insomnia or irregular patterns.
Autonomic Nervous System Dysfunction
The concussion may affect your autonomic nervous system, which regulates heart rate, blood pressure, and sleep rhythms. This imbalance often contributes to difficulty falling or staying asleep.
Coexisting Symptoms
Other concussion symptoms—like headaches, dizziness, or anxiety—may further disrupt your ability to rest. Sleep disturbances and concussion symptoms can create a cycle, where poor sleep worsens symptoms, and symptoms make sleep more difficult.
How Long Do Sleep Problems Last After a Concussion?
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. For many, sleep disturbances improve within a few weeks. But for others, especially those with post-concussion syndrome, sleep issues can persist for months. A study in The Journal of Neurotrauma found that sleep dysfunction may predict longer recovery times source.
What Helps If You Can’t Sleep After a Concussion?
Improve Your Sleep Environment
Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet.
Avoid screens 1–2 hours before bed.
Stick to a consistent sleep schedule.
For more guidance and a step-by-step concussion recovery plan check out The Concussion Solution.
Gentle Activity During the Day
Research shows that light aerobic exercise can improve sleep quality after concussion when done under safe guidelines.
Mind-Body Strategies
Relaxation techniques like deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation can calm your nervous system before bed.
Work With a Concussion Specialist
If sleep problems persist, professional guidance can make a huge difference. Evidence-based rehabilitation can address the root causes, not just the symptoms.
Taking the Next Step Toward Recovery
If you’re struggling with sleep after a concussion, know that you don’t have to go through it alone.
The Concussion Solution offers step-by-step, evidence-based strategies—including gentle activity progressions and lifestyle adjustments—that can help you restore better sleep and speed up recovery. It’s designed so you can follow along anywhere, anytime.
Start your concussion recovery today.
Additional Reading:
What to Do If I Have a Concussion: A Step-by-Step Guide
Safe Exercise After a Concussion: How Movement Supports Brain Recovery
Post-Concussion Autonomic Dysfunction: Why It Happens & How to Recover
