In recent memory, the horrible trauma experienced by soldiers during war has gained more national attention and exposure, particularly with the coining of the phrase Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). However, PTSD is not confined to those who experience the horrors of war. Any major trauma or harrowing experience can lead to a person developing PTSD. In this same vein, approximately one percent of all Americans are involved in a serious car accident each year. One billion dollars are spent annually as a result of these wrecks. As a result of this, some people may actually be suffering from PTSD as a result of motor vehicle accidents and they might not realize it.
What is PTSD?
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is an anxiety disorder that affects people who are involved in a traumatic or damaging experience such as war or violence. Even if your physical injuries have healed or may not even have existed in the first place, PTSD can still creep in and cause underlying mental anguish and despair. Perhaps the most common symptom of PTSD is nightmares or flashbacks that are so realistic that they cause the person mental pain as they “relive” the experience. Even if you do not have these flashbacks, you may also experience depression, anxiety, or nervous tension. This latter is the second major symptom, called “hyperarousal.” Finally, those who suffer from PTSD may be the victim of avoidance behavior. For instance, a person who is injured in a violent car wreck who suffers from PTSD may find themselves avoiding driving or even all cars because of the anxiety that is caused.
How can PTSD be treated?
There are three main types of therapy for those suffering from car accident PTSD: cognitive, exposure, and group therapy. In cognitive therapy, a doctor or therapist will guide the patient so that he or she changes how they think about the accident. Once they become aware of things such as triggers and warning signs, they can modify not only how they approach the trauma, but also how they deal with it in the future. With exposure therapy, the therapist will help the patient go over the accident and its details repeatedly until the trauma loses the horrific feeling from a car accident that it once had. This is similar to a person who has a fear of something being exposed to it time and time again until they build up a tolerance to the fear. Finally, group therapy involves working through the problems of PTSD with other patients. By sharing their thoughts, experiences, and fears, the patients can help each other come to terms with what happened, something that will greatly ease their anxiety levels. There is no one definitive cure for PTSD, so patients are encouraged to find the one that works best for their particular situation.
Horrible events in your life can sometimes be amplified because you may not be finished with them even after the event has happened. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder can be a serious problem leading to mental anguish and, in extreme cases, physical harm such as suicide. That is why anyone who is suffering from PTSD or who thinks that they might be, are strongly urged to seek professional treatment for the condition. Please call the car accident attorneys in Miami.
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