Coping With Anxiety & Panic Attacks After an Orange County Car Crash

When we think about California car accident injuries, we often think about broken bones and bruises – physical issues that are easy to see and understand. However, many car crash victims find themselves struggling with invisible injuries: mental health issues like anxiety and depression.

According to a new study conducted by the Australian College of Trauma Treatment, a shocking ten percent of drivers involved in car accidents suffer from some serious psychological issue in the aftermath of the crash—and, even those who escape serious physical injury can struggle with mental illness.

Anxiety After a Car Accident

One of the most common mental health issues faced by car accident survivors is anxiety. Anxiety could manifest itself in simple fear and apprehension when a driver returns to the road, or anxiety could develop into a more serious issue such as panic attacks, a phobic disorder, an obsessive-compulsive disorder, or post-traumatic stress disorder.

You may be suffering from anxiety after a car accident if:

• You fear driving or riding in a car.
• You fear driving in the area of your accident.
• You have persistent feelings of worry, apprehension, and excessive concern.
• You experience an ongoing and unrealistic fear of dying.
• You suffer from insomnia and sleep disturbances.
• You experience panic attacks.
• You struggle with feelings of depression and isolation.
• You feel restless, exhausted, or irritable.
• You have trouble concentrating or thinking clearly because of fears.
• Your anxiety prevents you from completing everyday tasks and responsibilities.
• Your anxiety affects your everyday life, such as your career or your relationships.

Confronting and Treating Your Anxiety

In some cases, anxiety will fade in the days and weeks following a car accident. But in other cases, anxiety may persist or even become worse. In the latter case, it is extremely important to speak to your doctor about your feelings and seek medical help. Treatment for anxiety varies widely from patient to patient, but could involve cognitive-behavioral therapy, exposure therapy, or anxiety medications.

Collecting Damages for Your Car Accident-Related Anxiety Disorder

A serious anxiety disorder can affect every aspect of your life—from your job, to your personal life, to your finances. It is only fair that the person or entity responsible for your car accident also takes responsibility for the issues you face as a direct result of your crash. If you suffered a physical injury or psychological trauma in the wake of a car accident, speak with an Orange County car accident attorney at Russell & Lazarus. Call us today at (949) 851-0222 to schedule a free case evaluation.