Cognitive overload happens when the brain is asked to process more information than it can handle efficiently at that moment. After a brain injury, the brain's processing capacity is often temporarily reduced, so tasks that require attention, memory, and decision-making at the same time can quickly become too much. Common signs include:

• Sudden fatigue or a foggy feeling mid-task
• Headaches or eye strain that appear out of nowhere
• Increased irritability or difficulty concentrating
• A sense of "shutting down" or needing to stop completely

Cognitive overload isn't a lack of effort or willpower. It's a measurable response to the brain working beyond its current capacity, and recognizing it early can help prevent longer symptom flares.

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