Being involved in an auto accident can impact an individual in numerous ways. A car crash can leave a victim not only physically injured, but emotionally injured as well. Experiencing an accident can substantially impact a person’s mental and emotional health and well-being, and these psychological effects can last well into the future.
After an accident, a car accident attorney can help build a strong case on your behalf so you can
pursue compensation for your injuries and losses. While proving psychological effects and seeking financial recovery for them can be difficult, it’s important to hire a lawyer experienced in car accident claims to guide you and help achieve a fair outcome.
Potential Mental Impact of a Car Crash
Car accidents are traumatic events. Whether minor or major, collisions can trigger many individuals, resulting in mental and emotional health issues. Experiencing a car accident can have different effects on different people. While some people may come through it with no issues, others may not be so fortunate. Below are some of the most common psychological effects victims face after a car accident.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a condition that arises after a traumatic or terrifying event.PTSD symptoms include:
- Recurrent memories of the triggering event
- Emotional or physical reactions to things that remind the victim of the event
- Dreams or nightmares about the event=
- Avoiding activities that remind the victim of the event
- Negative and intrusive thoughts
- Being easily frightened
- Trouble concentrating
Chronic Anxiety
Experiencing some feelings of anxiety is normal at different times in life. However, people with severe anxiety can suffer more intense sensations and symptoms. There are different types of anxiety, but generalized anxiety disorder is the most common kind experienced after a car accident. Some anxiety symptoms victims of car accidents may experience include:
- Persistent feelings of panic or fear
- Increased heart rate
- Sweating
- Feeling weak
Depression
Everyone experiences feelings of sadness at some point, but individuals with depression often suffer from extreme feelings of sadness and other unpleasant symptoms. Depression, also called clinical depression or major depressive disorder, is a mood disorder. Depression symptoms range in severity but can include:
- Persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness
- Irritability or frustration
- Feeling worthless
- Loss of interest in hobbies or other activities
Emotional Distress
Emotional distress encompasses many symptoms and different mental health disorders. Many emotional distress symptoms mirror other mental health concerns, including depression and anxiety. These symptoms can include:
- Persistent feelings of sadness, overwhelm, or hopelessness
- Constant worrying
- Difficulty concentrating or remembering
- Sleep disturbances
Car accidents can cause emotional distress. Your Virginia Beach car accident attorney knows how to handle emotional distress and pursue compensation on your behalf.
