Georgia drivers are equally at risk of suffering emotional trauma as they are physical trauma after being involved in a car accident. While you should seek immediate medical treatment for your bodily injuries, don't forget your mental health. See a doctor if you are struggling to resume your daily activities or are experiencing symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) at any point in your recovery.

Developing PTSD is not unusual after a car accident, but its symptoms can vary based on personal experience and trauma. For example, an individual’s ability to accomplish daily tasks or respond to stress can be significantly hindered by PTSD, potentially leading to anxiety attacks or depression. This is especially true if the accident resulted in the injury or death of someone else.

It is possible to walk away from an accident physically unscathed but emotionally traumatized. There is nothing wrong with seeking help from a psychiatrist or therapist after getting into a car accident. They are trained to help you process traumatic experiences, navigate your own thoughts and emotions about the accident and cope with symptoms of PTSD.

What Is PTSD?

Post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, is a psychiatric disorder caused by a frightening or life-threatening incident such as a serious accident, injury or natural disaster. PTSD symptoms typically begin shortly after the incident and can persist or even worsen far into the future (sometimes even a year later). PTSD may become more severe if symptoms are suppressed or ignored.

What Are the Symptoms of PTSD After a Car Accident?

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Fear
• Anger
• Trouble sleeping
• Vivid nightmares
• Lack of concentration
• Headaches
• Hyper-vigilance
• Isolation
• Flashbacks
• Avoidance
• Irritability
• Guilt
• Suicidal thoughts

What Tends to Trigger PTSD After a Car Accident?

Every individual’s PTSD triggers are different. A specific sound, smell or the intersection where the crash took place may inspire specific feelings of anxiety. Even picking up car keys or being in a car can heighten anxiety or fear.

Some common PTSD triggers include:

• Witnessing an accident
• Smelling fire, smoke or gasoline
• Hearing sirens
• Seeing first responders
• Driving the same route
• Being in traffic

When Should You See a Mental Health Professional for PTSD?

It can feel intimidating to ask for help, especially when it comes to your mental and emotional well-being. If you’ve been in an accident in Georgia, the first thing you should do is seek medical care. Even if you don’t feel injured or in pain, it is essential to have a doctor examine you for any major or life-threatening injuries. Car accident injuries can often take hours or days until the symptoms begin to surface.

Signs of emotional trauma can often take just as long to manifest after being in a car accident. A mental health professional that specializes in trauma or grief can help you navigate your feelings and any PTSD symptoms you may be experiencing as a result of your accident. If you aren't taking care of your mental health or your PTSD symptoms worsen, get in touch with a local therapist who can help you get your life back.

Coping Mechanisms for PTSD After a Car Accident

1. Be patient with yourself as you heal physically and emotionally
2. Find a reliable support system like your family or trauma support groups
   
3. Speak openly about your feelings with loved ones you can trust
4. Take driving lessons to overcome your fear and rebuild your confidence
5. See a licensed therapist to process your trauma with a professional
6. Consider other forms of transportation (i.e., taking public transit, riding a bike, walking, etc.)
7. Seek medical treatment for any outstanding injuries

HURT911 Treats Post-Accident Injuries for Drivers in Georgia

The consequences of getting into a car accident can be difficult to come to terms with, especially when you have been injured. At HURT911, our injury doctors and board-certified chiropractors identify and treat underlying injuries that can cause post-accident symptoms like anxiety, blurred vision  and insomnia.

Schedule your same-day appointment by calling 1-800-HURT-911.