Post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD, is a very common mental health problem suffered by people who have been involved in a car accident. This disorder can negatively impact every aspect of your life and if you are experiencing any symptoms of PTSD, it is important to seek professional help.
Common signs of PTSD
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms and feel that it is affecting your life, now is the time to reach out for help. A mental health professional can help you work through and manage your PTSD.
- Heightened anxiety
- Anger or irritability
- Insomnia or nightmares
- Intrusive thoughts about the car accident
- Severe anxiety or fear about driving and/or being around motor vehicles
- Feelings of dissociation or not being in your own body
What to Do if You Think You Might Have PTSD After a Car Accident
If you think that you may be experiencing PTSD, it is important to reach out for help. Simply trying to power through and hope it goes away will likely make things worse.If you feel anxious about reaching out to a mental health professional, you can begin by talking to someone close to you who you trust like a partner, family member, family doctor, or friend and let them know what you’re going through. This can be a good first step to finding the resources you need to get professional help
Am I Entitled to Compensation for PTSD?
If you have developed PTSD after a car accident that was the fault of another party, you may be entitled to compensation. PTSD can cause you to miss work and professional mental help can be expensive. You may be eligible for financial restitution to compensate for these factors. Talk to a personal injury lawyer to find out whether you should pursue a claim with ICBC.