The psychological impact of a car accident can be devastating. This emotional pain and suffering are in addition to any pain caused by a physical injury – victims can often be compensated for these mental injuries and effects. A negative psychological trauma response is not easy to anticipate, and two people can experience the same event and respond in very unique ways.
Visible Signs of Emotional Pain and Suffering
- Anger, irritability, or mood swings
- Obsessive/compulsive behavior
- Excessive or uncontrollable crying
- Denial of personal reality
- Lack of interest in favorite pastimes
- Emotional apathy, stoicism, or numbness
- Memory lapses or bouts of forgetfulness
- Moments of profound sadness and grief
- Self-isolation from social situations
- Substance abuse or addiction
- Insomnia or other sleep issues
- Loss or crisis of faith
The emotional impact of a traumatic car accident often requires treatment from a professional. In more serious situations, people may even consider suicide – therefore, it is vital to seek out support and assistance. Here are some mental health conditions commonly associated with pain and suffering after a car accident.
Anxiety: The patient experiences excessive worry or tension that is out of proportion to the situation at hand. This anxiety may look like a panic attack, overwhelming fear, social isolation, or separation anxiety.
Depression: The victim has rampant, uncontrollable negative thoughts and emotions they cannot get free from. They may showcase a complete disinterest in normal daily activities. Depression is typically related to family health history and an additional underlying cause of distress – such as a painful car accident.
PTSD/ Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: PTSD occurs after someone witnesses, experiences, or is victimized by a traumatic event. Victims often have terrifying flashbacks, nightmares, and crippling anxiety, as well as recurring thoughts and visions of the incident. The potential for suicide is greater for those with PTSD, but they may also experience depression, anxiety, or drug/alcohol abuse.
Substance Abuse: The prolonged use of psychoactive drugs can cause dependence or addiction, an increased risk of severe injury, or social and emotional damage. This abuse may involve alcohol, prescription medication, or illegal drugs.
Memory Loss: Victims of car accidents often experience memory loss, even if a brain injury was not involved. The trauma response can result in the brain “dropping details” of normal daily life.
How Are Pain and Suffering Treated?
Living and coping with emotional trauma stemming from an injury or car accident that was not their fault can cause a victim to feel like they have no control. They can achieve relief through therapy, medicine, and the support of loved ones.
Compensation may not solve all the problems associated with pain and suffering, but money gained through a personal injury lawsuit can help victims to deal with their new reality. Negative psychological trauma responses can have an effect on every element of someone’s life, including their career, relationships, and independence. The legal system recognizes and often compensates for psychological and emotional impact.
A personal injury lawsuit is a legal claim that proves liability for the accident or incident that caused the injury or trauma. If you are the victim of a car accident who believes that the situation caused emotional suffering and trauma, call the attorneys at Probinsky & Cole. You should not have to live a more complex, challenging, or limited lifestyle because of someone else’s negligence. Call us today for a consultation – we have offices that serve the greater Tampa, Orlando, and Sarasota areas.
