PTSD from car accident, heal your fears
Take my story of PTSD from a car accident
In my mid 20s, as I was taking the first steps in my personal training career, a car accident in May 2021 changed my life. It woke up every pain and imbalance in my body from my otherwise innocuous scoliosis left me with a concussion, but the most significant impact was on my mind. I withdrew from my previous lifestyle, loosing close relationships, while going through the challenges of starting a new career and business.
At first, the changes I began to make were a trauma response. I avoided going out because the anxiety of decided where to go was overwhelming. But once I removed myself from the noise of other people, I became more clear on having purpose in where to go. As I pointed out the anxiety and depression in my mind, I learned to manage my triggers in making decisions and when passing cars veered too close. Although challenging, facing my triggers led me to a place of great change in my life for the better.
Head trauma after a car accident
Head injuries from car accidents are common and can vary in severity, from concussions to more severe traumatic brain injuries. A concussion, a type of closed head injury, occurs when the brain is violently shaken inside the skull. The aftermath is a traumatized brain, and its effects can last a week or up to a couple months or even years.
Symptoms from all head injuries often include headaches, dizziness, memory problems, and difficulty concentrating. The impact of head trauma on daily life can be profound and even deadly, making it crucial to recognize the signs early and seek appropriate medical care.
Emotional trauma after car accident
The emotional aftermath of a car accident is not always immediate. Processing the event can take time, as everyone’s process unfolds at its own pace. Some may find themselves struggling with delayed reactions, feeling stuck in a cycle of processing what happened. This can lead to feelings of confusion, fear, and a sense of vulnerability. Acknowledge these emotions to unlock the first step in healing, then gradually work through your emotions at a pace that feels right for you.
Anxiety following a car accident
The most recognizable response might be your anxiety either to start driving again or about similar situations that remind you of your accident. You might notice your heart racing around passing cars or your road rage may have gotten worse.. Anxiety can manifest in these subtle ways. Over time, these feelings can become worse, which makes it essential to address them to avoid long-term impact on your driving confidence and overall well-being.
Ptsd from a car accident symptoms
PTSD symptoms following a car accident can include:
Re-Experiencing the Trauma:
Intrusive thoughts about the accident
Distressing dreams or nightmares related to the accident
Persistent Avoidance:
Reluctance or refusal to drive
Avoiding thoughts about or discussing the accident
Numbing of Emotional Responsiveness
Feeling emotionally numb
Feeling detached
Increased Physical Arousal
Heightened startle response
Irritability or anger
Disturbed sleep
How to get over being in a car accident
Recovering from a car accident involves deliberate steps:
Recognize Your Triggers
The first step in healing is to identify the specific triggers that cause you anxiety or stress. This might include certain driving scenarios, specific types of vehicles, or particular locations. Naming these triggers helps you become aware of them, which is essential for managing your reactions.Pay Attention to Your Body’s Responses
Once you've identified your triggers, observe how they manifest in your body. Do you notice a racing heart, sudden anger, or a sense of fear? Are you making indecisive turns or experiencing physical tension? Understanding these responses can help you anticipate and manage them better.Affirm Your Reality
Grounding yourself in the present moment is crucial. There are several techniques that can help:Deep Breathing Techniques: Slow, deep breaths can help calm your nervous system and bring your focus back to the present.
Tapping Technique: This involves gently tapping certain points on your body, which can help reduce anxiety and stress.
Focus on the Road Ahead: Keeping your eyes focused on where you're going can help you stay centered and maintain control.
Slowly Re-Expose Yourself to Trauma Reminders
Gradually re-exposing yourself to the situations that trigger your anxiety can help desensitize them over time. Start with small steps and gradually increase the exposure as you become more comfortable.
How Can Training Help You?
As a personal trainer specializing in PTSD, I understand the deep impact that trauma can have on your physical and emotional well-being. My approach goes beyond just fitness; I provide a supportive environment where you can rebuild not only your body but also your mind. Together, we develop personalized strategies to help you overcome the lingering effects of your accident and regain control over your life. Please contact me here for support or any questions!
Conclusion
Recovering from the PTSD from a car accident is a process that takes time and effort. It’s important to be patient with yourself as you work through these steps, and recognize that progress may come slowly. With persistence and the right strategies, you can regain your confidence and return to a sense of normalcy on the road.
