After any kind of personal injury accident, you may have physical injuries and experience soreness. Common physical injuries tend to include broken bones, neck and back injuries, and traumatic brain injuries.
However, these physical injuries aren’t the only thing you may experience after these events. The psychological effects of personal injuries can last even longer than physical wounds. Your mental health may be impacted by the trauma of the accident. It could be a result of your severe pain or the actual injury. It is common for those who are injured in these accidents to suffer ongoing mental and emotional troubles from traumatic brain injuries.
Even if your injuries are minor or expected to heal quickly, you may endure the impacts on your mental health for years to come. Here are the ways your mental health might suffer after a personal injury.
Depression
Many car accident victims experience depression because they can no longer be active after the accident. You may lose your enjoyment of life, be unable to sleep well, and have a hard time putting this event behind you. That hopeless feeling can keep you from feeling like yourself and may affect other areas of your life.
Anxiety
After experiencing a personal injury, you may now face financial uncertainty because of the added expenses from your medical bills and loss of income. You may worry about the future and how you will ever get through this situation.
Changes in Behavior
Traumatic brain injuries can change the way your brain functions. This can directly impact your personality and your behaviors. It is common for victims to experience severe and sudden mood and emotional changes.
Sleep Difficulties
You must get good sleep for your mental and physical well-being. When you are suffering from physical injuries that impact your mental health, you may find it harder to get the good quality sleep you need.
Phobias
One of the most common mental health impacts after personal injury accidents is the development of new phobias and fears. If you were in a car accident, you may now be wary of getting into a car. If you were attacked by a dog, you may be more nervous around dogs, even those that are calm and friendly.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a common impact on mental health that can arise even from minor injuries. You may experience nightmares as you relive the trauma in your head. Flashbacks and disturbing memories can cause you to isolate and withdraw from the people you love.
What to Do If You Have Mental Health Problems After an Accident
While it is essential to seek immediate medical care for your physical injuries, you should never ignore your mental health. If you experience any of these impacts, you should let your doctor know so you can get the care you need from mental health professionals. You should also speak with a personal injury attorney who can help reduce your stress by advocating for your legal rights.
