People most commonly associate post-traumatic stress with military troops who have faced combat situations. Psychologists and other researchers have found that numerous other circumstances can result in this emotional disorder, leading its sufferers to experience anxiety, depression, panic attacks, insomnia and other detrimental effects. In fact, a book published by the American Psychological Association states that automotive accidents are the primary cause of post-traumatic stress. A Personal Injury Lawyer can help someone dealing with this problem with efforts to obtain financial compensation from the at-fault driver’s insurance company. This is not an easy task for an individual without professional legal experience.
Researchers now estimate that nearly 8 percent of the U.S. population will experience post-traumatic stress at some point in their lives. In addition to military combat and vehicle accidents, examples of other causes include physical abuse during childhood, rape or sexual assault, and the sudden, completely unexpected loss of a loved one. In some instances, that sudden loss happens in a vehicle accident in which at least one person survives. That person may be especially at risk of serious emotional trauma that lasts for years. Research has shown that this traumatic emotional stress due to a vehicle accident often lasts for more than five years.
These individuals can benefit greatly from mental health counseling, but many of them do not pursue it. Without treatment, the condition may last a lifetime. A Personal Injury Lawyer knows how to build a case that convinces an insurer to pay for ongoing therapy so the person can recover and regain his or her previous sense of well-being. Verification from a clinical psychologist or a psychiatrist will be necessary. Statements also may be taken from people who witness the individual’s symptoms. The person may no longer be functioning as well at work, for example. He or she may avoid riding in vehicles whenever possible, which can result in increasing isolation. Someone who has been dealing with symptoms indicative of post-traumatic stress may want to contact an organization such as the Cosentino Law Firm for a free consultation. Please visit the website to learn more.
