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Your Injuries Can Affect You Mentally, Not Just Physically

If you are involved in a traumatic event such as being injured in a car accident, motorcycle crash, a fall, or work related injury you may be affected mentally by your injuries, not just physically. People who are involved in such events may have a difficult time dealing with their injuries, this can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) which typically beings within three months of the accident. There are certain feelings you may be having such as anxiety, fear, sadness, unfocused, and disturbed sleeping and eating patterns. However, having these symptoms does not mean you have PTSD. If they last longer than a month, are severe or if you feel like you can’t get your life back on track after a traumatic event you may want to consider seeing your doctor.

There is not a direct cause of PTSD, but it can be caused by certain things such as your life experiences or the way your brain regulates the chemicals and hormones your body releases in response to stress.

Risk factors that may make you more likely to develop PTSD:
• The traumatic event that occurred was very severe or intense such as a car accident or work injury
• The traumatic event was long lasting
• Lacking good support from family and friends
• Having an existing mental health condition

Post traumatic stress disorder can interrupt your entire life by affecting your job, relationships and even your everyday activities. It can also lead to other mental health issues such as depression and alcohol or drug abuse. Have severe injuries can lead to further problems such as PTSD, not only because of all the treatment and pain you might go through, but also not being able to work or do things for yourself if you are injured.

If you have been involved in a work or personal injury accident and think you are suffering from PTSD you should see your doctor right away. Once you go see your doctor you will most likely be examined through a psychological evaluation. Your doctor or mental health professional will be able to diagnose you properly based on the symptoms you are having. There are certain criteria that a person must meet in order to be diagnosed with PTSD. Treatment for such disease would consist of medications and psychotherapy. Also, having strong support from friends, family, or a support group will help you through the process of treatment too.

If you or someone you know has been injured in an accident our injury attorneys, Corey J. L. Walker and Erik D. Bair are here to help and your questions. Our attorneys are dedicated to leveling the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies.

To learn more about your injury:
Visit our Injured Iowan Website
Request a Free copy of our Iowa Workers’ Compensation Book
Request a Free copy of our Iowa Car Accident Book
Contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair about a free consultation