In the aftermath of a serious injury, most people think about the need for physical healing. But all too often, loved ones and even injured people themselves overlook the significant psychological impact injuries can have. When you understand how personal injuries affect your mental health, you’ll be able to move toward more complete healing.
Understanding the psychological impact of personal injuries
Severe personal injuries don’t just cause physical damage—they can also lead to psychological pain that interferes with daily life. In some cases, personal injuries may also lead to mental health disorders.
If you’ve suffered from a personal injury, you may be at a higher risk for developing these and other mental health issues:
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Panic attacks
Even if your injury doesn’t lead to an official mental health diagnosis, the psychological impact can be damaging. Counseling and other forms of mental health support can be invaluable to your recovery.
The importance of mental health care after an injury
After a serious injury, medical care is essential. But mental health care can be just as critical as physical care. Most of us are eager to get back to normal life after an injury. But if you’re still carrying untreated mental scars, your quality of life can decrease significantly. In many cases, poor mental health can also impair physical healing.
The role of mental health in legal proceedings
If your mental health has been impacted by an injury, it can make a difference in your personal injury claim. Many personal injury claimants recover damages for pain and suffering, which can include psychological pain and suffering.
Personal injury settlements also take medical costs into account, and this includes the cost of any mental health support you needed after the injury. For instance, if you paid for counseling sessions because of your injury, you may be entitled to compensation for past and future counseling sessions.
Support systems and resources
Don’t wait for a settlement before seeking out mental health support. Just like with a physical injury, it’s important to seek help for your mental health as soon as you can. If cost is a concern, you may be able to find free or sliding-scale services available.
For example, peer support groups can be a valuable resource. Indiana’s chapter of NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) offers both online and in-person support groups for trauma and other mental health concerns.
Individual therapy or counseling sessions can also be helpful. In individual sessions, a mental health professional can help you process the trauma of your injury and develop healthy coping strategies.
Injured? BB&C is here for you
At BB&C, we’ve supported injured people like you for more than 70 years. We see you as a whole person—not just a case to be won.
Our attorneys understand the far-reaching financial, physical, and mental impacts of personal injuries, and we’ll fight to get you the compensation you need to heal. We’re ready to be your supportive partners through this difficult time. If you’ve been injured, contact us today to schedule a consultation.
Disclaimer: The content of this blog is intended to be general and informational in nature. It is advertising material and is not intended to be, nor is it, legal advice to or for any particular person, case, or circumstance. Each situation is different, and you should consult an attorney if you have any questions about your situation.