By Paul Hendrickson – PTSD (Posttraumatic Stress Disorder) is not restricted to military men and women who have been involved in intense situations on the battlefield or people working in high-stress fields such as law enforcement. The shock, confusion, and intensity of being in an accident can cause negative psychological side effects, some of which may lead to long-term PTSD.

What is PTSD?

PTSD is a psychiatric disorder that can occur in people who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event such as a natural disaster, a serious accident, a terrorist act, war/combat, rape or other violent personal assault. It was first identified by medical professionals working with soldiers returning from WWI and WWII and was often called “shell shock” or “battle fatigue”.

What are Some Symptoms of PTSD?

PTSD impacts people differently. There are a variety of possible symptoms, but you may experience only one or two after an accident. Keep in mind the number of symptoms you experience does not dictate the level of severity. The frequency and intensity of your symptoms play a greater role in diagnosing the disorder. Here are four common symptoms that an individual suffering from PTSD may experience.

• Flashbacks –  Negative, persistent memories of the accident can flood the conscious and unconscious mind of an individual suffering from PTSD. They may become consumed by thoughts of the accident multiple times a day and have nightmares about it at night.

• Avoidance – Some people with PTSD will go out of their way to avoid the area where the accident occurred or take extra precautions to avoid a similar scenario that led to the original accident. For example, if the accident occurred on a bridge, they may avoid that bridge in particular or avoid all bridges in more severe cases.

• Self-Destructive or Risky Behavior – Depression, substance abuse, and suicidal thoughts can be signs of PTSD. Sufferers are sometimes unable to distinguish between risky behavior and overcautious behavior. They may take risks where they haven’t in the past or seem careless when it comes to their health and well-being.

• Unusual Emotional Responses – PTSD sufferers may suddenly respond to certain situations or people differently than they have in the past. They can become distrustful of others and want to continuously blame people for creating the situation that led to the original event. Some will have to work to control their anger or sadness, if the disorder becomes more serious. They may also experience intense feelings of guilt or a general lack of happiness.

Don’t Take Chances with Your Health – Get Help

It is common to focus on your physical healing after an accident, but your mental health is just as important. Your body can heal itself over time with help from medical doctors, but your mind needs that same attention. If you have been in a serious accident and have the slightest thought you may be suffering from PTSD, let your doctor know right away. He or she should be able to refer you to a local mental health professional who has experience dealing with the disorder. For more information on symptoms and possible treatments, visit the National Center for PTSD.