The emotional effects of a car accident can often be overlooked because the symptoms are not visible; they do not appear on X-rays and other medical imaging tests. These issues typically get less attention than physical ones because of the immediate need to attend to broken bones, wounds, burns, and other traumatic injuries. Car accident survivors commonly feel shock, disbelief, panic, fear, and anxiety right after a crash. Those symptoms might be treated in the ER or during an extended hospital stay after the accident.
Yet, many patients have difficulties dealing with the aftermath. A survivor might experience emotional impacts after much time has passed and might not realize that they need help. Psychological effects from car accidents can take weeks or months to manifest.
Emotional injuries from car accidents can make working and completing daily living challenging. The common conditions include anxiety, depression, frequent panic attacks, and PTSD. Here are the symptoms to be aware of:
- Being afraid of cars, driving, and being a passenger.
- Feelings of depression, nervousness, uneasiness, embarrassment, and mood swings.
- Flashbacks to the accident that blackouts may follow.
- Intense, frightening nightmares and memories of the crash.
- Withdrawing from others.
Coping With the Emotional Effects of a Car Accident
Overcoming these emotional injuries takes time and effort. It is wise to focus on self-care since neglecting basic needs like getting enough sleep, exercising, and eating right can exacerbate mental distress. However, returning to regular routines and attempting to engage with family and friends can be challenging for car accident survivors.
Seeking professional help from a licensed mental health provider is often the best route toward wellness. Many are trained to work with patients to process the emotions brought on by car accidents and can provide therapies and medications that work. In addition, the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) is a good resource that provides educational materials. The National Center for PTSD can also offer assistance.
Mental health treatment can be costly, but in some cases, compensation from the party responsible for the accident may be possible.
Contact a Chester County Car Accident Lawyer at Eckell Sparks if You Are Experiencing Emotional Injuries From a Car Accident
It is not unusual for claimants to be denied compensation for mental health care following a car accident. If you need legal help after a collision, speak with an experienced Chester County car accident lawyer at Eckell, Sparks, Levy, Auerbach, Monte, Sloane, Matthews & Auslander, P.C. Call us at 610-565-3701 or complete our online form to schedule a consultation. Located in Media and West Chester, Pennsylvania, we serve clients in Delaware County, Chester County, and Montgomery County.