Every time you step out of your home, you worry about sustaining an injury due to someone else’s negligence. Even the most cautious drivers get injured in accidents due to a drunk or distracted driver on the road. Defective products, slip-and-fall mishaps, and medical negligence are some other forms of personal injury risks.
According to CDC statistics, the number of visits to the US physician offices for injuries is a staggering 57.5 million, while 40 million injury-related visits are reported in emergency departments. More than 300,000 injury-related deaths happen in the country each year. A significant proportion of these relate to personal injuries caused by negligence. Unfortunately, these numbers are only the tip of the iceberg.
A far greater number of victims suffer from mental and emotional damage. In this article, we will highlight the psychological repercussions of personal injury.
Trauma and Stress Disorders
Studies show that the prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder among road accident survivors is 22.5%. The risk is even higher for personal injury victims because suffering due to another person’s negligence worsens the stress. People with PTSD experience symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, and heightened anxiety.
The worst part is that trauma and stress disorders may last forever unless you seek expert help. Symptoms may return after a first round of treatment because victims tend to blame themselves for something they had no control over. Untreated trauma can significantly hinder the healing process and lower the quality of life of victims.
Loss of Self-Esteem
Loss of self-esteem is another common implication faced by individuals who suffer from personal injuries. Imagine losing your identity and confidence behind the wheel just because someone else was driving under the influence or going against the rules. You may lose your self-esteem due to another person’s mistake.
Activities that were once effortless may become challenging. Those who sustain debilitating injuries and lose their independence are in an even worse place. The inability to engage in hobbies and social activities can contribute to feelings of isolation and depression, taking a severe toll on your psychological well-being.
Financial Strain
According to the World Health Organization, injuries place a massive burden on national economies, leading to a cost of billions of dollars each year in health care and lost wages. Damages are equally severe at an individual level as personal injury victims struggle to stay afloat while managing medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and home modification expenses.
Loss of income worsens their financial situation as they have to stay away from work due to their injuries. Financial strain causes stress, which can exacerbate existing mental health issues. People grappling with the economic fallout of their injuries may even develop anxiety, depression, and substance use tendencies.
Relationship Strain
Relationship strain is another psychological impact of personal injury. Changes in physical abilities can affect your relationship with your partner and family. Many victims report loss of consortium and companionship with their loved ones after sustaining chronic injuries such as spinal cord damage or traumatic brain injury.
Disabilities also reduce social engagement, leading to feelings of isolation down the road. Loneliness worsens the mental health challenges of accident victims, no matter how hard they try to cope with the strain.
According to Russell & Hill, PLLC, loss of enjoyment is an integral part of damages for victims, even if it does not seem like a direct monetary loss. A seasoned lawyer ensures adding it to the claim value when they seek compensation from the insurer of the guilty person.
Coping Mechanisms
Undoubtedly, personal injury victims deal with dire psychological impacts even after recovering physically. But an accident is not the end of the road. According to Russell & Hill, PLLC, victims can seek justice and compensation for the mental anguish they face, in addition to the cost of medical treatment. Resilience is the key, and it comes by adopting the right coping mechanisms. These include:
- Seek professional support from a psychotherapist or counselor to address the symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
- Join support groups to share concerns and get inspiration from people going through similar issues.
- Build a support system at home, work, and in your social circle to help you deal with your demons.
- Ensure that the guilty person pays back for negligence that caused your pain and suffering.
- Focus on healing with self-care practices like good nutrition, light activity, adequate rest, and stress-relief therapies.
In conclusion, personal injury victims should acknowledge and address the psychological impact of personal injury for comprehensive recovery. It is a part of the healing journey, regardless of the nature and extent of physical injuries. A holistic approach can be your savior, fostering a sense of overall well-being and resilience to start afresh. You deserve all the kindness and compassion because you have suffered due to another person’s mistake.
