When you focus on the injuries that follow a car accident, odds are that you pay the most attention to the physical injuries. What about the mental anguish that follows an accident?
Could you have post-traumatic stress disorder? If you do, how can you handle it?
Symptoms of PTSD
According to the Anxiety and Depression Association, it is normal following an accident for a person to experience severe emotional distress. It can be a part of the healing process. However, you may notice that you have more anxiety and depression and may feel an increased amount of stress. You may be living with severe fear and intense emotions.
You may begin to avoid vehicles altogether after a crash or find it difficult to go to work, school or any other planned event due to fear. When your symptoms disrupt your daily life, then it is time to start thinking about the possibility of mental health issues due to the wreck.
Coping methods for PTSD
To overcome the trauma of a car accident, be kind to yourself: You should never ignore your basic needs. Try to eat healthy meals and to get enough sleep every night. Do what you can to restore your body to physical health.
In addition, do not cut yourself off. You do not want to isolate yourself while you are dealing with PTSD. Instead, try to remain as social as possible. If you are struggling, know that it is never a sign of failure to seek help from a therapist or other mental health professional following a car accident.