At the moment that an accident happens, your life can change forever. You may find yourself dealing with catastrophic damage to your personal property. You may also have severe injuries that could require years of medical treatment and rehabilitation, and you will have to learn how to live with limited capabilities. While the effects of an accident may be physical and overwhelming, there are often unseen ways an accident can impact your life as well.
After a car accident, small plane accident or another type of personal injury incident, you may have deep psychological scars. It is important not to dismiss these unseen symptoms but to seek the help you need to put the pieces back together and move forward after this type of traumatic event. You could be suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, which is a serious mental health issue that requires specific types of treatment and qualified care.
Signs that you may have PTSD
PTSD is a mental health disorder often triggered by a serious, sudden event, such as the death of a loved one, a frightening event or a traumatic incident. Individuals with PTSD often do not realize that they have this type of condition until they or others notice certain signs. Some common indications of PTSD include:
- Feeling anxious or depressed
- Sleeping problems
- Having recurring nightmares about the accident
- Having flashbacks of the accident
- Living with anguish or fearfulness
- Avoiding flying or driving
- Feeling irritable or struggling with guilt
Certain things can trigger PTSD, including specific sights and sounds. You may be fine one moment, and the next, you could be paralyzed with fear and anxiety, which can lead to a panic attack. PTSD could cause you to treat others you love differently, and you may find it difficult to return to normal life due to your symptoms. Ongoing treatment can provide you with the tools you need to cope and thrive once again.
The after of a car or plane accident
It is important not to overlook or dismiss the signs that you may be displaying that could indicate you need emotional and psychological professional help during this time. After a car accident or plane accident in North Carolina, you may need different types of support during your recovery. If you have valid grounds for a civil claim, you may seek compensation for your mental health needs, as well as damages for the mental and emotional duress you experienced.