Can A Car Accident Cause PTSD?
In today’s news, we often hear about PTSD (“Post-traumatic Stress Disorder”) and how it affects the brave men and women who proudly serve in our armed forces. It is a serious issue, which finally seems to be getting the attention it dearly deserves.
But can a car accident cause PTSD?
Yes, it can.
Here are some important points to consider on car accidents and PTSD.
First: A Car Accident Can Cause PTSD
What is PTSD? PTSD is an anxiety disorder which can occur after a traumatic event. The symptoms can include nightmares, unwanted memories of the traumatic event, anxiety, and depressed mood.
In a comprehensive study by Dr. J. Gale Beck and Dr. Scott F. Coffey, the doctors noted that car accidents can cause PTSD.[1]
What is more, the study noted that a surprising percentage of car accident victims had PTSD. Specifically, after analyzing over two dozen studies the doctors found that 25-33% of car accident victims had PSTD.
Indeed, this is large percentage of car accident victims.
Second: Don’t Wait To Be Told You Need Treatment For PTSD
In the same study, the authors noted that in their own clinical work with car accident victims with PTSD that other medical providers may have not recognized the car accident victims’ mental health needs.
Indeed, PTSD may often be missed by doctors and other health providers.
If you believe you need mental health counseling, seek treatment. Don’t wait for your current health provider to recommend mental health treatment.
Third: Don’t Forget That Car Accidents Can Affect Your Mental Health
When we think about recovering from a car accident, we tend to think about physical therapy, exercise, stretching – our physical recovery. We do not tend to treat or address our mental well being with the same level of care.
Don’t overlook your mental health after a car accident. Address it as you would your physical injuries.
Call Barthelette Law, Your Boca Raton Personal Injury Attorney
At Barthelette Law, we have many years of experience handling car accidents, and our website and blog will answer all of your key questions (see: https://barthelettelaw.com/personal-injury/car-accident-attorney/).
If you were injured in an accident and your mental health is suffering, don’t hesitate to call. We are here to answer all of your questions. You can email us ([email protected]), call (561) 246-4137, or reach us through our contact page here: https://barthelettelaw.com/contact-us/
[1] The full study can be found here: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2396820/