It makes sense for a victim of a car accident to focus on physical healing. Suffering bodily injuries may require medical treatment, which may be extensive and long-term. You may also want to file a legal claim against the party that caused the accident, which may take time and a whole lot of effort. While these are sensible – and necessary – steps, you may also want to consider paying attention to the emotional and mental impact of the car accident.
Emotional and mental issues after a car accident may be long lasting, lingering after you heal from your physical injuries. These issues can be detrimental to your life and your future. These issues may affect your quality of life and may hinder you from enjoying your life to the fullest. It may also present challenges in maintaining and finding employment.
What are the long-term psychological effects of a traumatic car accident?
Following a car accident, you may suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), phobia and anxiety over traveling, anxiety, and depression. A recent study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry states that participating subjects suffered from these conditions both three months after the accident and after following up a year after.
How can you recover emotionally and mentally after a car accident?
Emotional and mental trauma from a car accident may be debilitating, but there are steps you can take to alleviate the symptoms.
- Lean on your support system. Communicate constantly and openly with your loved ones about your feelings and how they can help with your progress. You may also want to seek professional help. An experienced therapist can help you process your emotions and guide you towards healing.
- Take it one day at a time. Following a traumatic car accident and suffering from depression and anxiety might make it hard for you to look far into the future, so just focusing on your day-to-day might keep you from feeling overwhelmed and anxious.
If you suffer from emotional and mental trauma following a car accident, you may pursue damages caused by driver’s negligence or other similar circumstances. Understanding your rights and seeking the advice of an experienced attorney can help you start the process.