A car accident is a shocking experience that leaves a lasting mental impression long after physical injuries have healed. The majority of the victims struggle with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxiety that affect the way they work, interact with other people, and even perform their daily tasks.
The psychological effect of an accident is often downplayed, but to the individuals who have to endure the psychological effects, the effect cannot be overstated.
It also helps to seek the assistance of the best car accident lawyers to find out how to seek compensation for the emotional impact of the accident.
Understanding PTSD and Anxiety After a Car Accident
When a victim has witnessed or experienced a horrific incident, he or she is likely to develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and emotional sensitivity to stimuli related to the accident are some of the symptoms. Generalized anxiety is also experienced by many survivors of car accidents, and thus, they fear driving or even being near traffic.
In some victims, the effect is immediately apparent, but in others, the symptoms appear after some weeks or months. The severity of PTSD and anxiety depends on the severity of accidents, the occurrence of physical injuries, and a history of previous traumatic experiences. Professional help is generally in order, but many victims resist.
How PTSD and Anxiety Affect Daily Living
The emotional trauma caused by a car accident can devastate nearly every part of a victim’s life. Most victims struggle to return to normal, some relationships break down, and money goes down the drain.
- Fear of Driving: The most common symptom of PTSD following an accident is the fear of driving. Victims fear driving themselves or even being a passenger, so work commutes or errands are impossible.
- Sleep Disturbances: Insomnia and nightmares are frequent issues in people with PTSD. Lack of sleep can lead to mood swings, poor concentration, and heightened anxiety.
- Social Withdrawal: Victims of trauma withdraw from friends and relatives. Victims feel misunderstood or don’t want to be a burden to others.
- Challenges in the Workplace: Anxiety and PTSD disrupt the capacity to concentrate on work, meet deadlines, or even feel secure in some workplaces. Some victims are forced to quit their jobs due to their illness.
When these effects become overwhelming, a professional is necessary. Counseling and depression therapy enable victims to work through their trauma and regain control.
The Long-Term Impacts of PTSD and Anxiety
PTSD and anxiety that go untreated can leave a lasting impact. Some develop depression or substance abuse as they try to deal with their anguish. Others struggle to maintain relationships or engage in activities they once enjoyed.
It is crucial to understand the nature of psychological trauma after a car accident.
Seeking Legal Representation for Emotional Trauma
Medical expenses and lost income are not the only expenses of being an accident victim. Accident victims experience great emotional suffering as well.
Mental health therapy is costly, and not all insurance policies pay enough for therapy and medication. For these reasons, finding a car accident lawyer can be the first step towards holding responsible parties accountable and recovering compensation for the losses sustained.
