More than six million car accidents take place in the United States each year, leaving millions of people to suffer the aftermath of these crashes. For many, that means overcoming serious physical injuries. Beyond the physical recovery, quite a few people experience emotional trauma following a vehicle accident. In fact, at least 30 percent of drivers suffer from PTSD after being in a crash by some accounts, and millions experience fear and anxiety to a slightly lesser extent.
Dealing With Trauma After an Accident
As is the case with physical injuries, emotional scars take time to heal after an accident. Dealing with that type of trauma is different for everyone. Some people are able to move on within a few days. Others suffer for months or even years after the fact. If you’re struggling to overcome the mental and emotional effects of a whiplash injury accident or other type of crash, consider some of the following methods to help you recover.
Turn to a Support System
One of the most effective tools for recovering from post-accident trauma is a strong support system. That might include close friends and family members. Reach out to the people you trust. Share your feelings and fears with them. They may understand. Even if they don’t directly understand what you’re going through, they’ll be there for you. At the same time, you could turn to an organized support group for accident trauma victims. Sharing your fears with people who’ve had similar experiences can make a world of difference.
Seek Professional Guidance
If turning to friends, loved ones, or peers doesn’t fully help, there’s no harm in turning to professionals for extra support and guidance. A therapist or counselor who’s experienced in helping accident trauma victims can give you the tools you need to cope with your feelings and overcome them. Several types of therapy are available for just such situations, and they’ve helped many people get back on the roads with a renewed sense of calm and confidence.
Take Baby Steps
Realistically, almost everyone experiences a certain amount of fear and hesitation after being in an accident. Many may not admit it, but that doesn’t mean it’s not true. For some people, even small measures can have a major impact when it comes to overcoming emotional trauma. Though you don’t want to immediately rush to a vehicle and get back on the interstate, gradually easing back into driving and riding in a vehicle may help.
Consider simply sitting in a car for a few minutes at a time without actually going anywhere. While doing so, practice deep breathing and make sure you’re as comfortable as possible. You could also listen to music to help calm your nerves. Eventually, you could transition to driving or riding around the block. Then, move up to back roads. Over time, you may be able to return to the driving routines you had before the accident, but don’t try to progress too quickly.
Effectively Overcoming Accident Trauma
Everyone experiences some level of fear after being in an accident, so you’re not alone by any means. If your trauma doesn’t seem to be fading, though, taking extra measures to overcome it is recommended. You can ease back into traveling by taking baby steps. Turn to a support system, a counselor, or a therapist if necessary. Along the way, set realistic goals for yourself. Recovery isn’t going to happen immediately; it’s a slow process that requires time and patience.