Why fatigue after traumatic brain injury is anything but mild

We all get tired sometimes… but a brain injury brings a whole new perspective to the concept of fatigue.   It's not just about feeling tired—this kind of fatigue can be cognitive, physical, and emotional, and it often affects every part of daily life.

A person may no longer be able to work the hours they once did. They might need frequent rest breaks, find it harder to focus, or feel utterly depleted after what used to be simple tasks—like reading, socialising, or even going to the supermarket.

One client comes to mind—a farmer who, before his injury, worked long, physically demanding days. After his brain injury, he came home exhausted and was no longer able to help with cooking or household chores. His cognitive test scores were broadly in the expected range, but they didn’t reflect the reality of his day-to-day difficulties.

This is where neuropsychological assessment can help. It’s not just about test performance; it’s about understanding how a person functions in real life. A thorough interview helps clarify whether fatigue is primarily neurological, or whether poor sleep, depression, anxiety, or post-trauma symptoms are playing a role.

Although fatigue often improves in the months following a mild brain injury—especially when sleep is intact—it can become long-term and disabling in more severe cases. It’s also worth noting that the assessment itself—three or more hours of intense cognitive work—can provide valuable insight into fatigue levels and stamina.

For lawyers working with clients whose impairments are invisible but life-changing, fatigue is a critical piece of the puzzle. It may not show up on a scan, but it shows up in function—and that matters.