Physical injuries can be very serious after a car accident, but so can “invisible injuries” following a car wreck. Unseen injuries, such as PTSD, are among the often overlooked psychological impacts of car accidents. Here, we will explore PTSD after a car accident as we learn about PTSD symptoms, the importance of seeking help, and the resources available for those affected by these “invisible” injuries.
Signs of PTSD After a Car Accident
Many car accident victims end up suffering from posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD is one of the serious psychological impacts that is commonly associated with motor vehicle accidents. In fact, the American Psychological Association reports that motor vehicle accidents are the most common cause of PTSD among the general population. Car accidents can be extremely traumatic and people should learn about the significance it can have for a victim’s mental well-being.
PTSD is an anxiety disorder. It is usually the result of a traumatic event where a person experienced a situation involving actual death or the threat of death or serious injury. The person’s own physical well-being may have been threatened or that of someone else. Symptoms of PTSD may include:
- Intrusive, repeated thoughts about the accident
- Upsetting dreams about the accident
- Trying to avoid thoughts or situations associated with the accident (including a reluctance or refusal to drive)
- Detachment from others and emotions
- Mood changes
- Negative self-talk
- Memory difficulties
- Relationship troubles
- Feelings of hopelessness
- Losing interest in activities that once brought joy
- Exaggerated startle reflexes
- Disturbed sleep
- Irritability
PTSD symptoms can last for just the short term, but many experience difficulties associated with PTSD for years. It can have a big impact on a person’s life and well-being as it interferes with everything, including day-to-day routines. Fortunately, there are a number of viable treatment options and PTSD symptoms can be effectively managed and alleviated with the proper course of treatment and self-care.
PTSD is usually diagnosed through a psychological examination. Once a person has been diagnosed, they may be prescribed a treatment plan involving therapy and/or medication. Medications such as antidepressants, antianxiety, and medication used to suppress nightmares are among the medications type PTSD sufferers may be prescribed.
In addition to medication, those suffering from PTSD are often prescribed various types of treatments. Cognitive therapy, for instance, involves the identifying of patterns that may be preventing victims from moving past their traumatic experience. Alternatively, exposure therapy focuses on helping patients to safely face memories that are causing them to re-experience the traumatic experience. Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing have also been used to treat those suffering from PTSD. In this type of treatment, exposure therapy is used and involves the employment of guided eye movements to alter reactions to traumatic memories.
North Dakota Personal Injury Attorneys
Have you suffered from anxiety and other PTSD symptoms after an accident? Accidents can be physically, emotionally, and mentally traumatic. Focus on getting the proper care for yourself and let the dedicated legal team at Pringle & Herigstad do the work of getting you properly compensated for the harm you have suffered. Contact us today.
