Can a Car Accident Really Cause PTSD for Crash Victims?

Wondering if car accidents can cause PTSD? Absolutely it can! Car accidents are not just about the immediate physical injuries. They can also leave deep emotional scars. Here’s what you need to know about PTSD after a car crash, and how there’s hope for recovery.

Understanding Emotional Trauma & PTSD Caused by Motor Vehicle Accidents

What Exactly is PTSD? PTSD is a mental health condition triggered by a terrifying event — either experiencing it or witnessing it. Events leading to PTSD include acts of violence, natural disasters, serious accidents, or witnessing a death. The disorder is characterized by severe anxiety, flashbacks, nightmares, and uncontrollable thoughts about the event.

The symptoms of PTSD can be categorized into:

Re-experiencing the Trauma: This includes flashbacks, nightmares, and severe emotional or physical reactions to reminders of the traumatic event.
Avoidance: Steering clear of places, activities, or people that remind you of the traumatic experience, and avoiding talking about the event.
Negative Changes in Thinking and Mood: This includes feelings of hopelessness, memory problems, relationship issues, and a lack of interest in activities you once enjoyed.
Changes in Physical and Emotional Reactions: Symptoms can include being easily startled or frightened, always being on guard for danger, self-destructive behavior, trouble sleeping, and difficulty concentrating.

For those involved in car accidents, PTSD can manifest in specific ways, including:

Reliving the car accident through flashbacks and nightmares.
Intrusive thoughts about self-harm or suicide.
Avoidance of driving or being in a vehicle.
Feeling withdrawn from social interactions.
Emotional volatility and feeling constantly on edge.

How Seeking Injury Trauma Counseling After an Accident Can Help

After an accident, the psychological impact can be profound. The traumatic event can trigger the brain’s fight-or-flight response, leaving a lasting impact. Symptoms can include panic attacks, depression, anxiety, and mood swings. This is where seeking professional help becomes essential.

Impact Medical Group’s Approach to Emotional Healing

Impact Medical Group understands the implications of trauma like PTSD. We offer a comprehensive approach to help you recover:

Our team includes Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, Licensed Mental Health Counselors, and Social Workers.
We employ evidence-based treatments like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Supportive Talk Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing.
Our experts help you navigate feelings of anxiety and apprehension about post-accident surgeries.
We can prescribe medications to ease anxiety and foster calmness.
Our telehealth services ensure you get the help you need, wherever you are in Florida.
We provide necessary documentation to establish a diagnosis related to the car accident.
We accept Personal Injury Protection coverage and medical liens.
Partnering with an associate pharmacy, we ensure your prescriptions are filled under a lien.

Impact Medical Group Can Help You Recover from Emotional Car Accident Trauma

The emotional aftermath of a car accident can be as significant as the physical injuries. Impact Medical Group of Sarasota is dedicated to helping every patient recover not just physically, but emotionally and mentally as well. With our comprehensive and empathetic approach to post-accident care, we ensure you have the support you need to overcome this traumatic experience and reclaim the joy in your life. Call us at (941) 222-1157 to schedule your free evaluation and start your recovery journey with our caring team.