According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), trauma can be anything that is “deeply distressing or disturbing” and affects every person differently. Car accidents can be traumatic experiences, whether a person is driving a vehicle involved in the accident, a passenger, or a bystander who witnesses the accident.
While most people identify and seek help for physical car accident injuries, they may neglect to recognize the effect of a car accident on their mental and emotional health. However, emotional distress is a normal part of the healing process following a traumatic event such as a car accident.
The following is a discussion of the psychological impact of being in a car accident. For more information and resources, you may visit the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) or the National Center for PTSD.
If you were injured in a car accident through no fault of your own and are suffering physical or psychological symptoms, contact an experienced Dallas personal injury attorney to schedule a consultation. You may be entitled to compensation to pay for medical and mental health services.
Trauma is an Emotional Response
Trauma is an emotional response to an event. When a car accident victim experiences trauma, it may be the result of a medical condition.
The Psychological Impact of Car Accidents
Car accidents can significantly impact a crash victim’s psychological well-being. A variety of medical conditions can result from the trauma of a car accident, including but not limited to:
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD);
- Anxiety;
- Depression; and
- Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI).
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Car accidents are the number one cause of non-military PTSD in the United States. It is a mental health condition known to cause intense fear and anxiety along with feelings of hopelessness.
People living with PTSD may experience:
- Flashbacks or nightmares about the car accident;
- Difficulty sleeping;
- Withdrawal from others;
- Aggression and mood swings; and
- Suicidal thoughts.
Anxiety
Victims of car accidents may experience extreme or debilitating anxiety. This anxiety may be centered around driving or riding in motor vehicles and could be long-lasting.
Children may exhibit anxiety through bedwetting, nightmares, or regression.
Depression
Life changes due to physical limitations, or the inability to participate in previously enjoyed activities can cause depression. Car accident victims may struggle with a sense of isolation, loneliness, or hopelessness.
Traumatic Brain Injury
Car accidents are a common cause of Traumatic Brain Injury. TBI is harmful to a person’s brain and can temporarily or permanently impair brain functioning.
Symptoms of TBI include changes in a person’s psychological health and behavior, such as:
- Mood swings;
- Sleep disturbances;
- Feelings of depression or anxiety; and
- Problems concentrating.
If you suspect a car accident has impacted your psychological well-being or that of a loved one, seek mental health treatment right away. Then, contact an experienced Texas personal injury attorney to see if you qualify for accident-related compensation.
Contact an Experienced Dallas Car Accident Attorney Today
At Mathias Raphael PLLC Accident & Injury Lawyers, our Dallas car accident lawyers believe we must represent our clients during some of the most difficult times in their lives. We want our clients to receive maximum compensation for their injuries and gain a sense of justice from their case outcome.
Mathias Raphael PLLC Accident & Injury Lawyers uses innovative strategies to tackle challenging cases head-on and win. We work alongside our clients and ensure clients are informed as their case progresses through the legal process.
Call or contact Mathias Raphael PLLC Accident & Injury Lawyers in Dallas today to schedule your risk-free claim consultation and learn how we can achieve results for you!