How to Handle Severe Anxiety and PTSD After a Car Accident?

Even if you escape without major physical injuries, the psychological impact of a car crash can be severe and long-lasting. Many accident survivors develop symptoms of anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in the aftermath. This is especially true for those who suffer a car accident injury, as the trauma of both physical pain and emotional distress can compound the effects.

NIMH figures report that 39.2% of people who survive a motor vehicle accident suffer from PTSD, and 25-33% experience anxiety in the aftermath. If left untreated, these mental health issues can disrupt your daily functioning and overall quality of life. Here are some tips for coping with and overcoming anxiety and PTSD after a car accident:

Seek Professional Help

While 40 million people suffer from anxiety in the US, only 36.9% get any treatment. The first and most important step is to seek professional mental health treatment. A psychologist or therapist who specializes in trauma and PTSD can provide invaluable support. They will help you process the traumatic event, manage anxiety and flashbacks, and develop healthy coping strategies. With professional guidance, many people make a full recovery from post-accident trauma. 

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure therapy, EMDR, and medication are proven effective treatments for accident-related PTSD. One study found that 18-20 CBT sessions were more effective than counseling. Don’t try to handle this alone – get professional help right away.

Join a Support Group

Connecting with others who have been through similar traumatic accidents can make you feel less alone. Support groups allow you to share your experiences and challenges in a judgement-free space. Other group members may provide helpful advice and coping strategies based on their own recovery journey.

For many people with PTSD, knowing that others understand their struggles is hugely comforting. Local support groups for accident survivors and PTSD may be available in your area. There are also online groups and forums that allow you to connect from anywhere.

Practice Relaxation and Self-Care 

Anxiety, worry, insomnia, and constant stress are common after a serious accident – 20-30% of Americans experience insomnia, with 10% of them suffering from a chronic sleeping disorder. It’s crucial to actively carve out time for relaxation and self-care.

Try calming practices like deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or massage. Maintain routines that promote healthy sleeping and eating. Avoid caffeine and screens before bedtime. Spend time outdoors and with supportive loved ones. Be gentle with yourself and take things one day at a time. Prioritizing your mental and physical wellbeing will boost your ability to cope and heal.

Reclaim Normalcy Gradually

For some time after the accident, even regular activities like driving can trigger paralyzing fear and anxiety. The key is to very slowly re-expose yourself to any avoided situations, rather than trying to force normalcy. For example, start by just sitting in a parked car, then graduate to short drives. With each successful small step, your confidence will grow. Let supportive friends or family accompany you at first for reassurance. Avoid putting pressure on yourself to just “get over it”. Healing from trauma takes time – go at your own gentle pace.

If trauma has badly impacted you and the accident wasn’t your fault, speak to a car accident lawyer. They can look at your chances of making a successful claim against those responsible. 

With professional treatment, support, self-care, and time, it is possible to recover from severe anxiety and PTSD after an accident. Don’t lose hope in your ability to heal. Be compassionate with yourself throughout the process.