Did you know that there are approximately 6 million car accidents each year in the United States of America? Accidents happen anywhere and at any time, it is important that you’re aware of the possibility of trauma after a car accident. In addition to concerns about delayed pain, you should be aware of any emotional trauma as well as signs of post-traumatic stress.
It is common for people who have been in a car accident to suffer from post-traumatic stress. The good news is that there are a number of things you can do to not only fight PTSD when it comes to driving but overcome and conquer it.
Continue reading to learn everything you need to know about the five best things to help you cope with trauma after a car accident.
What’s the Difference Between Normal Feelings and Trauma After a Car Accident?
It is common after you’ve been in a car accident to feel an overwhelming wave of feelings and emotions. In a normal situation, those feelings and emotions disappear over time and you return to a sense of normalcy. Unfortunately, there are situations where those feelings don’t go away. In some cases, they get stronger.
If these feelings start to get in the way of your everyday life then it is likely that you’re suffering from post-traumatic stress as a result of your car accident. Here are some common signs that will help you determine if you’re suffering from PTSD:
- A persistent, general feeling of uneasiness
- Anxiety related to driving or riding in cars
- Avoiding getting medical exams or tests done
- Irritability
- Nightmares or difficulty falling asleep
- Trouble connecting with other people or events
- Ongoing memories of the car accident
If you’re experiencing these feelings or difficulties then it is likely that you’re suffering from emotional trauma and PTSD directly related to what you experienced in your car accident. If you’re having difficulties, visit this site for help.
Five Things To Help You Cope
Despite the concerns that you have regarding PTSD and your trauma after a car accident, there are multiple avenues you should take in order to cope with your trauma. Here is a closer look at five great ways to help you cope with your PTSD.
1. Talk To Friends or Loved Ones
One great way to help cope with the emotional trauma you’re feeling from your car accident is to talk with friends, family, or loved ones. Start by going over the details of the accident that occurred. Discuss how you felt and what you thought in the moments during and after the accident happened.
You should also talk to them about how you felt during the days that followed the accident. This will help you navigate and work through your feelings and thoughts related to what happened.
2. Stay Active
Staying active is a great way to cope with your trauma after a car accident as long as you’re not experiencing delayed pain from what happened. Participate in activities that you enjoy and that bring you happiness. You can also find new hobbies or activities that help you with your PTSD.
It is a wise move to visit your family doctor in order to determine the type and extent of any injuries you suffered. This will also help the doctor figure out what physical activities you’re clear to participate in and which ones you need to avoid. Exercising is a great option because it takes your mind off of what happened and it releases chemicals in your body that boost your mood.
3. Follow Up With Your Doctor
If you feel that you’re spiraling or your PTSD is getting worse after the accident, don’t be afraid to follow up with your doctor. Your doctor will have a great network of specialists that will help with what you’re going through. It doesn’t matter if it is a physical or mental issue, they’ll help you find someone that is an expert.
Your doctor will also be able to monitor your healing progress from any injuries you sustained in the accident and prescribe any medicines that will help to speed up your recovery.
Another big benefit of following up with your doctor is that he or she will help you get in touch with a mental health specialist to help you work through the things you’re feeling. A therapist is an excellent way to work through emotional trauma after something like a car accident.
4. Get Back To Daily Routines
The emotional trauma that results from a car accident tends to keep people from doing their daily routine and taking part in daily activities. It is important to try to get back to your normal life and routine as soon as you can. It might be intimidating or uncomfortable at first, but it is a very important part of the healing process.
5. Work On Becoming a Defensive Driver
It is normal to have a hard time riding in or driving cars after experiencing a car accident. A great way to lower the odds of a future accident is by working on becoming a defensive driver. You should always drive carefully when operating a motor vehicle and make sure to wear your seatbelt.
It is also crucial that you avoid distractions while driving. Things like cell phones are horrible distractions when operating a vehicle of any kind or size. It puts you and others in a dangerous situation that could have serious ramifications. Eating and talking on the phone are other distracting things to avoid when driving.
Lastly, avoid driving when you’re tired. Driving when tired slows down your reaction times and prevents good decision-making.
Conquer Your Trauma After a Car Accident
There are many great ways available to you for recovering from trauma after a car accident. One great way is to talk about your feelings and thoughts about what you experienced with those close to you. It will help them understand what you’re going through and help you work through things.
You should also be sure to stay active if your injuries allow it, and follow up with your doctor so that he or she monitors your situation. Don’t be afraid to use your doctor’s network to get in touch with a mental health specialist for help with PTSD.
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