On a good day: Understanding the hidden struggles of brain injury survivors

By Maria Dallas

Published May 23, 2025In: Brain and Spinal Injury

Not every injury is visible. And not every struggle is constant. For many people living with the effects of a brain injury, daily life is marked by uncertainty. One day they may seem full of energy, able to hold a conversation, enjoy a family outing, or return to work. The next, they may be struggling to get out of bed, battling fatigue, headaches, confusion, or sensory overload.

Woman laughing after successful head injury compensation claim

This year’s Action for Brain Injury Week campaign, On a Good Day , led by Headway, has been shining a light on the fluctuating and unpredictable nature of life after a brain injury, and why we must listen more closely, support more patiently, and advocate more effectively.

What does “a good day” mean?

For someone recovering from a traumatic brain injury (TBI), a good day might not look how you’d expect. It might mean:

Getting dressed and making breakfast without help
Walking to the end of the street for the first time in weeks
Making it through a phone call without losing focus or feeling overwhelmed
Smiling again, after days of low mood or frustration

But these good days can be misleading, both to others and to the person themselves. Friends and employers might assume someone is “back to normal.” Survivors may push themselves too hard to meet old expectations, only to crash later.

This cycle of progress, then setbacks can take a heavy toll, especially when others don’t see the full picture.

The hidden symptoms that shape everyday life

Brain injuries are complex and highly individual. But some of the most common long-term symptoms include:

Fatigue – not just tiredness, but a deep, overwhelming exhaustion that doesn’t improve with rest
Headaches and sensory issues – bright lights, noise or crowded spaces may become intolerable
Mood and personality changes – frustration, depression, anxiety, or difficulty managing emotions
Cognitive difficulties – memory loss, trouble concentrating, slow processing, or struggling with speech
Reduced capacity – difficulties making decisions, understanding risks, or managing money

None of these are visible. Yet all can affect relationships, careers, confidence, and independence.

As lawyers working closely with brain injury survivors and their families, we see how these symptoms can turn even simple decisions, such as returning to work or managing a household, into a huge hurdle.

Supporting survivors, even on the good days

At Switalskis, we support clients whose lives have been changed by a serious injury and we understand that progress isn’t consistent. A good day doesn’t mean someone is fully recovered. It doesn’t mean their claim for support or compensation is any less valid.

In fact, recognising the ups and downs is crucial. It helps us:

Work with medical experts and case managers to understand the full reality of someone’s condition
Ensure care and rehabilitation plans are flexible and realistic
Secure financial support that reflects both visible and invisible impacts of brain injury

We also support families and carers, many of who face the emotional challenge of adapting to new behaviours, unpredictable moods, or increased dependence.

This Action for Brain Injury Week, let’s listen differently

The On a Good Day campaign reminds us that we don’t always see the full story and that real recovery is not about ticking boxes, but about building a life that works, even on the bad days. Read more about the On a Good Day campaign by clicking this link here .

If you or someone you care about is living with the effects of a brain injury and needs support, we’re here to help. Our team of specialist brain injury solicitors will guide you with compassion, expertise, and a clear focus on rebuilding your future.