According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, motor vehicle collisions are a leading cause of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among both men and women. Even minor accidents can be inherently traumatic and affect the victims psychologically for months-or years-to come.
In addition to recovering from any physical injuries, those who have been involved in a wreck must cope with the emotional aftermath. It is natural to experience a flood of feelings, including shock, anger, guilt, shame, anxiety, and fear, in the days and weeks following a crash.
How Do You Cope with the Emotions That Arise Following a Car Crash?
If you are struggling to cope with the emotional impact of a traumatic wreck, there are steps you can take to protect your mental health and overcome the psychological trauma. Such steps include:
" Giving yourself time to heal;
" Reaching out to loved ones;
" Establishing a normal routine; and
" Seeking help from a qualified professional.
- Give Yourself Time to Heal
Everyone copes with trauma, grief, and loss differently. While some people may seemingly bounce back after a matter of days, others take much longer to process the experience and its aftereffects. Recognize that it is going to take time to overcome the emotional impact of the collision, and do not be too hard on yourself if the negative feelings do not dissipate as quickly as you thought they would.
- Reach out to Loved Ones
It is normal for those who have recently experienced some kind of trauma to isolate themselves socially. If you find yourself withdrawing from friends and family, make an active effort to spend time with them. You will quickly realize that talking to those closest to you may be exactly what you need.
- Establish a Normal Routine
Depending on the severity of any physical injuries that you sustained, you may not be able to return to your old routine; however, it is important to devise a new schedule that facilitates health and wellness. It should include plenty of sleep, some gentle exercise, and three balanced meals a day.
- Seek Help from a Qualified Professional
For some people, talking about the trauma with their friends and family is enough. Others need a little more help coping with their new normal, though, and they can get it by talking to a therapist or counselor. You should seek professional help if the negative emotions are affecting your everyday life or jeopardizing your personal or professional relationships.
