Maybe it has been weeks or months since you were involved in a catastrophic accident, but you still cannot fall or stay asleep. Perhaps you feel like your anxiety is through the roof and nothing seems to help or make the flashbacks stop. If you are suffering from any symptoms of PTSD after experiencing or witnessing a catastrophic accident, do not worry – there are a few things you can do to help manage your symptoms.
If you or someone you care about is suffering from PTSD after suffering an injury in an accident that resulted from negligence, you may be eligible to open a claim for compensation under New Mexico state law. A Dominguez Law personal injury attorney can help you obtain a settlement for your damages, including for pain, suffering, mental anguish, and PTSD.
6 Tips For Managing PTSD Symptoms After a Catastrophic Accident
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is common after catastrophic accidents, and the effects can be debilitating. Thankfully, there are a few things you can do to ease the effects and help you cope, including:
Deep Breathing
Concentrating on your breath and breathing deeply is effective in helping the body and mind relax and calm down. When you are feeling anxious or stressed, try taking deep breaths in for four seconds, holding it for two seconds, then breathing out for four seconds. You can also use this exercise with your eyes open or closed; the important thing is that you focus on each breath as it comes in and goes out of your body.
Progressive Muscle Relaxation
Progressive muscle relaxation is a technique that helps you calm down and focus on the present moment. It can be done lying down or sitting up, but what is important is to focus on the muscle group being relaxed and not on any pain or discomfort you might be experiencing.
When doing this exercise, breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth while tensing one muscle group at a time until all of them are tense. Then, slowly relax each muscle group as you breathe out through pursed lips (like whistling). This will help release tension in your body and mind so that it is easier for you to relax overall.
Self-Soothing
When you are feeling stressed or upset because your PTSD symptoms are getting to you, it can be helpful to use self-soothing techniques, also known as self-care. These are activities that help you relax and reduce stress. They can be anything from taking a bath to listening to music or sitting in front of a fire.
Expressive Writing
Writing down your thoughts and feelings about an experience in detail can be a therapeutic practice. Jotting our deepest thoughts down on paper can open up space in our minds for new growth. Expressive writing can also help you work through and understand your feelings, organize your thoughts, and express yourself.
Seek Social Support
If you have endured a catastrophic accident and are suffering from PTSD, you may find yourself feeling isolated and alone. It is important to connect with others who understand what you are going through, and that can be difficult when there are few people around who truly comprehend the impact on your life.
Reach out to family and friends. They might not know how best to help, but simply having someone listen when you need it most can make all the difference.
Get Professional Help
Many people need professional help to deal with PTSD after a catastrophic accident, and that is okay. Get in touch with a therapist, psychiatrist, or another mental health professional who will be able to ensure you are getting the medical treatment or medication you need to help you start feeling like yourself again.
Contact a Personal Injury Attorney You Can Trust After a Catastrophic Accident
Catastrophic accidents are likely to cause PTSD in the victims involved. If you are suffering from PTSD after an accident in New Mexico, a Dominguez Law personal injury lawyer can fight on your behalf to recover monetary compensation for your mental health treatment, emotional distress, lost wages, and other damages. Our compassionate and aggressive lawyers will be there for you every step of the way.
Call (505) 850-5854 or complete our contact form to schedule your complimentary consultation today.
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