Holistic Health Directives

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is commonly experienced by those who have been involved in a serious car accident. If this describes you, your car accident lawyer may have told you that emotional suffering (PTSD in this case) is typically a compensable damage. As a result, depending on the severity of your condition, you may qualify for compensation on this basis alone. If the at-fault party’s insurance carrier includes this form of damages in your settlement, it may have been based on the assessment of a mental health counselor. Even if you were not compensated for having developed this condition, it may be in your best interest to visit a therapist. 

Common Signs of PTSD Resulting from a Car Accident

Though PTSD can result from virtually any car accident, regardless of its severity or whether or not physical injuries were involved, the symptoms are more universal. It’s important to seek help from a qualified mental health professional as soon as possibly if you are experiencing emotional difficulties. Those who are suffering from severe depression are encouraged to reach out for help immediately. Therapists who are highly trained and experienced with treating clients who are experiencing depression can help. You may be suffering from PTSD as a result of your car accident if any of the following are true:

·         You are mentally reliving the accident, over and over again, perhaps without the ability to control these memories from repeating themselves.

·         You are experiencing an overly heightened state of awareness and are “on edge,” with feelings that you must stay alert or else feelings of danger may overwhelm you.

·         You feel anxiety, fear, or depression when you are faced with having to drive your vehicle, or be a passenger in someone else’s vehicle. Alternately, you may experience one or more of these feelings when you encounter something that causes you to remember the accident, such as returning to the location where it occurred, or seeing a vehicle similar to one from the accident.

·         You have difficulty sleeping because when you’re asleep, you have nightmares about the accident. You may also be afraid to fall asleep because you wish to avoid having the nightmares. This can result in sleep deprivation.

·         You may experience sudden and uncontrolled bouts of sobbing, even in public places or while at work.

·         You have isolated yourself from loved ones or have begun spending most of your spare time at home, unwilling to go outside even to enjoy your yard or go for a walk with no vehicle involved.

Experience Emotional Healing with the Help of a Trained Therapist

Though your friends and family may be very supportive of how you are feeling in the wake of a serious car accident, there are usually limitations in what they can offer you. On the other hand, a trained therapist who specializes in counseling individuals who are experiencing PTSD and other issues can make a world of difference. Give an office a call to learn more about how an anxiety therapist in Palatine, IL can help move past this difficult time in your life.

Thanks to Lotus Wellness Center for their insight into therapy and emotional recovery from a car accident.