Cases of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are common after serious car accidents. The traumatic nature of severe collisions and the catastrophic injuries that often accompany them can cause significant psychological damage. Luckily, help and support are available to help people with PTSD cope and heal. Make sure to speak with a car accident lawyer in San Antonio.
Coping Mechanisms for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
PTSD can cause symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, depression and a loss of interest in normal activities. Living with this psychological trauma can be extremely difficult, especially while also trying to recover from physical injuries. Taking prompt action to address your PTSD symptoms can make an important difference to your recovery.
Prioritize Self-Care
Be gentle and patient with yourself as you recover from a serious crash. Avoid self-blame. Create a day-to-day routine that makes you feel relaxed and supports your psychological recovery. This can include self-care practices such as meditation, exercise, healthy foods, journaling and good sleep.
Notice Triggers
Certain triggers, such as having to drive in a car again after a crash, can provoke severe anxiety and physical reactions in those with PTSD. It can be beneficial to write down or keep track of your triggers or panic attacks so that you can identify patterns. Note which triggers are manageable vs. those that put you at risk. Prepare coping strategies in advance for potentially triggering scenarios.
Get Support
Having emotional support from friends and family can make it easier to cope with PTSD after an auto accident. Emotional trauma can be isolating and make you feel alone. Connections with other people can be important healing tools. If you don’t feel that you can confide in people you know, look for a support group in your community that offers counseling specifically for survivors of trauma. A strong support system can accelerate your recovery.
Seek Professional Help
There are effective treatments available for PTSD related to auto accidents, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy, and medication. Talking to a psychiatrist can give you healthy coping mechanisms to address your symptoms and return to a normal life as much as possible. See a doctor or mental health professional to discuss your treatment options.Â
Car Accident Claims and PTSD
As a car accident victim in Texas who is suffering from symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, you can list this mental health condition as a compensable damage on your car insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit. See a doctor early on for an official PTSD diagnosis and keep copies of your medical records to serve as proof. Keep receipts for any of your medical costs, treatments and prescription medications, as well.
Texas law allows for the recovery of financial compensation not only for economic or monetary damages, but for non-economic damages, as well. This includes emotional distress, mental anguish, PTSD and reduced enjoyment of life. It is important to work with an experienced personal injury attorney in San Antonio if you wish to maximize your financial recovery for PTSD.
Your attorney can hire experts, gather medical records, and take other actions to help prove the mental and emotional effects a serious car accident has had on you. A lawyer can help deliver justice for the psychological suffering you have endured, helping you move forward and find greater peace of mind. Contact us today.