After a recent motor vehicle accident, you have various injuries to address. Did the collision leave you with psychological scars, too?
The American Academy of Family Physicians explores post-traumatic stress disorder after a car accident. Determine whether you may qualify for non-economic damages.
Expected emotions and powerful emotions following a car accident
After a car collision, you could feel angry, shocked, nervous, guilty or worried. Usually, these emotions clear over time, but they may linger and infect your life. If these emotions keep you from enjoying your day-to-day life, you could have PTSD.
Common symptoms of the stress disorder include:
- Difficulty sleeping
- Lingering anxiety
- Irritability
- Worry about riding in a car or driving
- Avoiding medical tests
If you suspect you display any of these symptoms following your car accident, consider seeking professional help.
Receiving PTSD treatment following a car accident
If a therapist or doctor diagnoses you with PTSD, you have several treatment options to explore. Talking about the accident with friends or a therapist can help you make sense of your powerful emotions. Depending on your post-accident physical condition, exercising could provide psychological relief.
Keep in touch with your physician, as she or he could recommend other specialists to help you. To reduce your chances of being in another accident, consider taking a defensive driving class.
Risk factors for PTSD following a car accident
Certain factors increase your risk of experiencing PTSD after a motor vehicle accident. Experiencing something traumatic before the accident could put you at risk. Having depression, anxiety or a similar mental disorder may increase your chances.
Pay close attention to your mental health in the coming days and weeks. Experiencing PTSD or other mental anguish could affect your personal injury claim.