Emotional Distress and Mental Health Issues Cause Real Harm after an Accident

Too many people whose lives have not been touched by a serious car or truck accident scoff at non-economic damages such as emotional distress and mental pain and suffering because they do not understand the real harm that the effects of an accident can cause. The mental and emotional aftermath of an accident can have a ripple effect that causes a significantly diminished quality of life, breakdown of family relationships, and even devastating financial loss.

Depression 

Depression is more complicated than most people realize. It can destroy your relationships, ruin your career, contribute to a cycle of chronic pain, and actually interfere with your body’s ability to heal and bounce back from injuries. There are many ways in which an accident can lead to depression. Disfiguring physical injuries, loss of the ability to do the things you used to be able to do with friends and family as well as the inability to be productive are just a few. Chronic pain can lead to depression and brain injuries can be a direct cause of depression. If someone you love was seriously injured or killed in the same accident, depression can be compounded by grief.

Anxiety and PTSD

It is perfectly normal for an auto accident to lead to anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). As a result, you may be afraid to drive or ride in cars, to the point that you cannot attend necessary medical appointments or go back to work. Missing out on the medical care that you need will obviously lead to more serious medical problems or a less than optimal recovery. The inability to commute to work means that you can no longer earn a living and can spiral into complete financial breakdown for you and your family.

When you have been hurt in an accident, you need the help of an experienced accident attorney who understands the true cost of emotional and mental health problems arising out of an accident and can deliver the truth to a jury in a way that is meaningful and relatable, so that you can recover the full compensation that you and your family need.