Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a condition that became big news following its effects on soldiers who returned home after deployment in Afghanistan and Iraq. The good news with this is that the media’s attention has led to more research and help for soldiers and their families who have been impacted.
The research into PTSD also made clear to the public that it isn’t limited to soldiers. It is now being diagnosed in people from all walks of life.
A deeper look into PTSD
PTSD is a condition that is characterized by persistent emotional and mental stress. The stress can result from severe injuries or psychological shock. People suffering from PTSD often feel like they are constantly reliving the traumatic experience because of vivid memories that plague them. They exhibit dulled responses to their environment and the people with whom they interact.
Researchers are taking a closer look at motor vehicle accidents and their effects on victims. It is now emerging that many survivors of serious auto collisions develop mental health difficulties. In many cases, these victims experience depression, anxiety and stress. Many of them exhibit signs of PTSD.
PTSD can also result from burn incidents and defective products when the resulting injuries are severe.
Are your feelings normal?
More than 6 million accidents occur every year in the US. Victims of these accidents experience a variety of emotions including:
- Shock
- Anger
- Fear
- Disbelief
- Worry
- Guilt
While these feelings may seem overwhelming at the time, research has shown that these feelings are common and usually go away with time. However, some victims experience emotions that only grow stronger with time. Some even experience changes in how they act and think.
Victims experiencing PTSD may exhibit the following symptoms:
- Excessive anger, worry or irritability
- Problems riding or driving in a vehicle
- General and ongoing uneasiness
- Trouble sleeping
- A feeling of disconnection to those around them and their environment
- Recurring memories of the accident that the victim can’t control or stop.
Seeking compensation
Seeking compensation for PTSD caused by a motor vehicle accident or other traumatic event can be difficult. Not only is PTSD difficult to diagnose, but many doctors still deny that victims of motor vehicle accidents can develop the condition. Insurance companies also argue that developing PTSD from a car accident is impossible. They therefore deny victims compensation for PTSD basing their arguments on a lack of evidence that links auto accidents to the development of the condition.
However, recent research and numerous diagnoses by doctors make clear that victims of motor vehicle accidents can develop PTSD. According to the Mayo Clinic, PTSD can be caused by any event that is life threatening or extreme. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you recover compensation for PTSD resulting from an accident.
