Mental Collisions: How Car Accidents Can Psychologically Affect You

When you’re in a car accident, hundreds of thoughts run through your head: What’s happening? Am I going to survive this? Is everyone else okay?

Your brain becomes overwhelmed and can’t process what is going on. Once the accident is over and everyone’s injuries have been assessed and taken care of, your brain can then start to try to make some sense of what happened. However, sometimes the brain can’t fully or easily process the event. This can lead to traumatic psychological issues that, without help, can haunt you every time you set foot into a car.

Psychological Effects Following a Car Accident

Car accidents are extremely traumatic because not only do you suffer from the pain of your physical injuries, but also your memories can cause further damage even after your wounds have healed, Every time you get into a car, your brain may automatically and uncontrollably remember details of your accident. These memories can cause:

  • Increased anxiety
  • Elevated heart rate and blood pressure
  • Cold sweats
  • Heavy breathing or hyperventilation
  • Blurred vision
  • Fainting
  • Uncontrollable fear
  • Irritability
  • Neurosis

Even though there may not be evidence of any physical trauma—such as swelling or bruising in the brain—causing these symptoms, the unseen psychological trauma can severely affect your life. Imagine if you were unable to go anywhere because you’re too scared of getting into a car?

If you’ve recently been in a car accident and are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, or if you’re having difficulty readjusting to automobile transportation, seek professional help from a psychiatrist or a trauma professional immediately. Psychological trauma can severely worsen over time, so don’t hesitate to get help.

Contact a Local Personal Injury Lawyer

Do you require assistance getting the medical help you need? Call Shevlin Smith for a free legal consultation. Our D.C. vehicle injury lawyers can help you seek a recovery from the person responsible for your condition. Don’t let your accident haunt you any longer. Call today: (703) 721-4233

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