Serious injuries, including sports injuries, workplace accident injuries, head trauma, amputations, and other serious injuries can cause post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). While many people tend to associate PTSD with war time, for most people the condition is actually most common after a car accident or other serious injury. Whether you live in Kendall, Miami, or any South Florida community you could be at risk of PTSD if you in a traumatic event.
What Is PTSD?
When we are in danger, our bodies produce a “flight or fight” response, promoting our bodies to survive and make quick decisions so we can stay safe. When we are in a serious situation, we may notice our heartbeats accelerate, our breathing become rapid, and we may notice other symptoms indicating our body is getting ready to fight back or flee.
These responses are supposed to stop once we are no longer in danger. In some cases, however, the body’s responses to danger become impaired and someone may respond with heightened anxiety and adrenaline, even when they are not in danger. This is PTSD.
Do I Have PTSD?
If you have been in a serious event, such as a near-drowning, truck accident, or assault, you may notice stress-related symptoms for some time after the event. This may be normal. However, if the symptoms last more than three months or are severe enough to interfere with everyday life, you may want to see a doctor for a diagnosis.
Symptoms of PTSD vary from person to person, but can include:
- Sleep disturbances
- Flashbacks and nightmares
- Trouble concentrating or focusing
- Changes in personality or severe mood swings
- Frightening thoughts
- Avoidance of specific situations or people
- Easily being frightened
- Ongoing anxiety or heightened alertness and tension
- Loss of interest in everyday activities
- Memory problems
Ultimately, the only way to get an accurate diagnosis and proper treatment is by consulting with a qualified medical professional. If you suspect you may have PTSD, talk to your doctor.
How Can I Heal After a Serious Injury?
If you have PTSD after a serious event or injury, a medical professional can help you find appropriate treatment. Currently, various forms of therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Stress Inoculation Training. Doctors can also prescribe medication, including Paroxetine (Paxil) and Sertraline (Zoloft), to help manage symptoms.
Do I Have a Claim for My PTSD?
If you have been injured and have suffered PTSD and your injuries were caused by someone’s negligence, Florida law allows you to file a legal claim to recover compensation for your injuries. This compensation can help you pay for lost wages and medical treatment, including treatment for your PTSD.
If you have been injured in Southern Florida, call Flaxman Law Group at 866-352-9626. Our phone lines are staffed 24/7 so you can schedule a free, no obligation consultation with an attorney. You can also contact us online to set up a consultation with our legal team.