Car Accident: Coping with the Emotional Impact

Flashing lights, sirens, hospital beds, confusion… A car accident is a traumatic experience and can leave you physically and emotionally disabled. In the aftermath, you may be wondering how to cope and get your life back to normal. You have to take steps to rebuild your personal sense of power and overcome the emotional trauma in addition to figuring out any physical challenges.We know that extraordinarily stressful events can shatter your sense of security and leave you with memories you’d rather not have, making you feel vulnerable.

It’s important to remember to seek help from loved ones and maintain your relationships instead of isolating yourself. Talk about your feelings and concerns and try to stick to a daily routine to stay grounded. Usually, the symptoms will fade with time but sometimes people develop post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and depression.If within a few months you are still experiencing the following symptoms, it may be a good idea to ask for some professional help:

• Having trouble functioning at home or work

• Suffering from severe fear, anxiety, or depression

• Unable to form close, satisfying relationships

• Experiencing terrifying memories, nightmares, or flashbacks

• Avoiding more and more things that remind you of the trauma

• Emotionally numb and disconnected from others

• Using alcohol or drugs to feel better

The most important factor in recovering from the trauma of the accident is recognizing that it is okay to be hurting and allowing those around you to love and help you is strength, not weakness. Treatment may include anxiety management, breathing and relaxation exercises, or medications to relieve anxiety and help you sleep.

Getting over the pain and regaining a feeling of safety will take time, but treatment and support from family and friends will speed up your recovery. Have you or a family member been in an accident? What are your tips for the emotional recovery?