Dealing With PTSD After a Severe Accident
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health disorder that can occur after an individual witnesses or is involved in a traumatic event. Symptoms may include:
- Intrusive memories and flashbacks
- Nightmares and insomnia
- Emotional avoidance and numbness
- Hyperarousal, such as being easily startled or having an extreme response to triggers
- Negative changes in mood and thoughts
If you’re experiencing these symptoms following a severe car accident, it’s essential to seek help from a mental health professional.
Types of Personal Injury Cases and Accidents That Can Lead to PTSD
A wide range of personal injury cases and accidents can result in significant psychological trauma, which can lead to the development of PTSD. Some common types of accidents that can result in PTSD include:
- Car Accidents: Car accidents, particularly those that are severe and involve significant injuries or fatalities, can be extremely traumatic for survivors. The suddenness and violence of a severe collision can haunt those involved, leaving them with lasting emotional scars.
- Workplace Accidents: Injuries sustained on the job, especially in high-risk professions like construction or manufacturing, can also lead to PTSD. Being involved in a severe workplace accident can cause workers to develop an ongoing fear of returning to work or being near the site of the accident.
- Medical Malpractice: Experiencing a medical error or negligence during surgery, childbirth, or other medical procedures can lead to profound psychological trauma. The trust placed in medical professionals makes the resulting trauma even more severe when something goes wrong.
- Physical Assault or Abuse: Survivors of physical assault or abuse can develop PTSD due to the intense feelings of fear, helplessness, and vulnerability that often accompany these experiences.
How to Get Help for PTSD
Here are some steps you can take to address the issue and get the support you need:
- Recognize the Signs: PTSD symptoms can range from frequent and upsetting recollections of the event to nightmares, flashbacks, feelings of rage or irritation, difficulty concentrating, and avoidance of situations or locations that are a reminder of the trauma. It’s important to recognize these signs and accept that seeking help is necessary for recovery.
- Seek Professional Help: A mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, can provide an accurate diagnosis of PTSD and recommend the most appropriate treatment options. Treatment for PTSD may include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and/or medication.
- Find a Support Network: Connecting with others who have experienced similar trauma can be a valuable component of the healing process. Support groups, either in-person or online, can provide a safe and understanding environment in which to share your experiences and emotions.
Establishing a Claim for PTSD Compensation
To successfully claim compensation for PTSD after a personal injury accident, there are specific steps and factors you must consider:
Seek professional diagnosis and treatment
The first step towards recovering compensation for PTSD is to get a credible diagnosis from a qualified mental health professional. A psychiatrist or psychologist will evaluate your condition and determine if you have PTSD and require treatment. Having a professional diagnosis is essential to support your claim in court or during settlement negotiations.
Establish liability for the accident
You’ll need to prove that another party’s negligence or intentional actions caused the accident which ultimately resulted in your PTSD. This will involve proving the at-fault party’s breach of duty of care and showing a direct link between their conduct and your PTSD.
Document your damages and losses
It is vital to keep accurate records of your medical expenses, therapy costs, lost wages, and any other financial losses resulting from PTSD. This documentation will serve as evidence when calculating the compensation you deserve.
Consult a personal injury attorney
A skilled Jersey City personal injury attorney with experience in PTSD cases can be a great asset in helping you recover compensation. They can guide you through the intricate legal process, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent your best interests in court.
If you need help after an accident, don’t hesitate to contact us to schedule a free consultation.