Car Accident PTSD Symptoms Anger. PTSD car accident symptoms may include anger, both related and unrelated to the event. Intrusive Thoughts and Feelings. Reliving the Accident and Flashbacks. Depression. Anxiety. Increased Isolation. Sleep Disturbances. Difficulty Concentrating.
PTSD symptoms generally go away within 1 week to 3 months after an accident. Other symptoms may last for years–especially if not properly treated. If you believe that you have PTSD or are experiencing symptoms, see your doctor or primary care physician to determine next steps.
What Is Blunt Force Trauma? Blunt force trauma is a severe injury that can occur in a car accident. The impact of the collision can cause the body to be thrown around inside the vehicle, resulting in broken bones, internal bleeding and traumatic brain injury. In some cases, blunt force trauma can even be fatal.
Long-Term Emotional Recovery: Months to Years This is particularly true for those who experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a result of their accident. Signs of long-term emotional struggles may include: Persistent avoidance of driving or riding in vehicles.
Even minor accidents can lead to psychological distress and lingering trauma, such as: Mood swings, causing feelings of anger, frustration and guilt. High levels of stress and anxiety that don't go away. Difficulty sleeping, including insomnia and recurring nightmares.
People may be diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) if their symptoms last for an extended period after a traumatic event and begin to interfere with aspects of daily life, such as relationships or work.
Practice self-care: Be sure to eat healthy meals and get plenty of sleep. Engage in activities that promote relaxation and well-being, such as exercise, meditation, or hobbies you enjoy. Have patience: Remember, it's normal to have a strong emotional reaction after a traumatic event.
Take a deep breath and relax. Do some yoga or relaxation exercises. Meditate or pray. Think about what happened and what you could have done to avoid the accident--use the experience to learn from your mistakes. Within a few days you will be feeling much calmer.
If the bone is visible through the skin, go to the ER immediately. Loss of consciousness - A bump on the head that results in loss of consciousness should be attended to in the emergency room. If the head injury is determined to be blunt force trauma by the paramedic, they may be taken to a trauma center instead.
(NOTE: A Report of Motor Vehicle Accident must be filed with the Department of Motor Vehicles within 10 days of a collision if the collision caused damage over $1,000 to the property of any one person. Failure to do so can result in suspension of your driver's license.)