Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is more than just feeling anxious or stressed after a traumatic event. For many accident survivors, PTSD can have long-lasting effects on mental health, relationships, and daily life. According to data, it develops in 5% to 10% of people who have experienced trauma.

If you’re suffering mentally and emotionally after an accident, you’re not alone—and you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. This page explains PTSD, how it’s linked to personal injury claims, and what steps you should take to protect your health and legal rights.

What Is PTSD?

PTSD is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Accidents—whether car crashes, workplace injuries, or violent incidents—can trigger PTSD. 

Unlike normal stress, PTSD symptoms persist and interfere with your daily life. It’s a recognized medical condition, and courts often consider it a valid personal injury claim. 

What Can Cause PTSD?

PTSD can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Common triggers include:

• Accidents: Serious car accidents, workplace injuries, or other sudden events can be traumatic. 
• Combat exposure: Military service in combat zones can increase the risk.
• Childhood physical abuse: Early-life trauma can have long-term psychological effects.
• Sexual violence: Survivors of sexual assault are at a higher risk of developing PTSD.
• Physical assault: Being attacked or violently threatened can trigger lasting trauma.
• Natural disasters: Experiencing hurricanes, earthquakes, floods, or other catastrophic events.
• Bullying: Persistent bullying or harassment, especially during formative years, can contribute to PTSD.
• Sudden loss of a loved one: Unexpected death of a family member, friend, or partner can be deeply traumatic.

Who Is Most at Risk for PTSD?

Certain conditions or experiences can make someone more vulnerable to PTSD after a traumatic event:

• Traumatic brain injury (TBI): Physical brain injuries can increase susceptibility to PTSD.
• Chronic pain: Long-term pain can exacerbate stress responses and worsen PTSD symptoms.
• Substance abuse: Using drugs or alcohol to cope with trauma can interfere with recovery and increase risk.
  

Common Symptoms of PTSD

PTSD symptoms may not appear immediately—they can emerge months or even years after a traumatic event. They may also come and go, varying in intensity over time. Symptoms are typically grouped into four main categories:

1. Intrusion

• Flashbacks: Feeling like you are reliving the traumatic event.
• Nightmares: Recurring distressing dreams about the trauma.
• Intrusive thoughts: Unwanted memories or images that are hard to control.

2. Avoidance

• Avoiding reminders: Steering clear of places, people, or activities that trigger memories of the trauma.
• Avoiding situations: Skipping events, driving, or social activities that cause anxiety.

3. Changes in Thinking and Mood

• Emotional numbness or sadness: Feeling disconnected from loved ones or overwhelmed by low mood.
• Loss of interest: No longer enjoying activities or hobbies that used to bring pleasure.
• Negative beliefs: Persistent guilt, shame, or hopelessness.

4. Changes in Arousal and Reactivity

• Sleep problems: Difficulty falling or staying asleep.
• Irritability or anger: Heightened frustration or outbursts over minor issues.
• Hypervigilance: Being easily startled or constantly on edge.

How PTSD Is Diagnosed by Professionals

Diagnosing PTSD involves a careful evaluation to understand both the physical and psychological impact of the trauma. Medical and mental health professionals typically use a combination of physical exams and mental health assessments.

1. Physical Exam

• Purpose: While PTSD is primarily a mental health condition, a physical exam helps rule out other medical issues that could cause similar symptoms (like sleep problems, headaches, or fatigue).
• Assessment Includes: Checking vital signs, overall health, and any physical injuries that may be linked to the traumatic event.
• Importance: Physical exams also help document any trauma-related injuries, which can be useful for legal or insurance claims.

2. Mental Health Evaluation

• Purpose: A licensed mental health professional evaluates the patient’s emotional, cognitive, and behavioral symptoms.
• Assessment Tools:
  • Structured interviews
  • Standardized questionnaires (e.g., the PTSD Checklist – PCL-5)
  • Observation of mood, thought patterns, and stress responses
• Outcome: Confirms whether the patient meets the diagnostic criteria for PTSD and identifies the severity of symptoms.

Treatment Options for PTSD

PTSD can be effectively managed with a combination of psychotherapy, medication, and alternative treatments. Treatment plans are tailored to each individual, depending on the severity of symptoms and personal needs.

Psychotherapy

Also known as talk therapy, psychotherapy helps patients process trauma, manage symptoms, and develop coping strategies. Common approaches include:

• Exposure Therapy: Gradually confronting trauma-related memories or situations in a controlled environment to reduce fear and avoidance.
• Cognitive Therapy: Identifying and challenging negative thought patterns that contribute to distress.
• Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): Using guided eye movements to help process and reduce the emotional impact of traumatic memories.
• Group Therapy: Sharing experiences in a supportive group setting, which can reduce feelings of isolation and provide practical coping strategies.

Medication

Medications can help manage symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances. Common options include:

• Antidepressants (SSRIs): Often prescribed to reduce mood-related symptoms.
• Anti-Anxiety Medications: Help manage acute stress and panic attacks.
• Sleep Aids: Improve insomnia or nightmares associated with PTSD.

Alternative Treatments

Some patients find relief through complementary or non-traditional approaches, including:

• Acupuncture: Can help reduce anxiety and improve overall well-being.
• Animal-Assisted Therapy: Interaction with trained animals can provide comfort and reduce stress.
• Support Groups: Peer-led groups offer emotional support and practical advice for coping with PTSD.

Recovery

Recovery from PTSD is a gradual process, and it looks different for everyone. Key elements include:

• Consistency in treatment: Regular therapy sessions and medication management can significantly improve outcomes.
• Building a support network: Family, friends, and support groups help maintain emotional stability.
• Self-care practices: Exercise, mindfulness, healthy sleep, and stress-reduction techniques aid recovery.
• Tracking progress: Keeping a journal or notes about symptoms and improvements can help patients and their therapists adjust treatment as needed.

With proper treatment and support, many individuals with PTSD can regain control over their lives and reduce the long-term impact of trauma.

When Can PTSD Qualify for Compensation?

Yes. If your PTSD was caused by someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing, you may be able to recover compensation. This is usually considered a “non-economic” injury, which means it covers emotional or psychological harm rather than physical damage.

How Compensation Works:

• Medical Evidence Is Key: To pursue a claim, you’ll need documentation from a mental health professional showing a formal PTSD diagnosis and linking it to the incident.
• Damages You Can Recover: This can include therapy and treatment costs, lost income if PTSD affects your ability to work, and compensation for emotional suffering.
• Severity Matters: The more severe your symptoms—such as frequent flashbacks, inability to work, or social isolation—the stronger your case may be for higher compensation.

Steps to Protect Your Claim:

1. Seek Professional Help Immediately: Documenting treatment early strengthens your case.
2. Keep Detailed Records: Note symptoms, missed work, therapy sessions, and impacts on daily life.
3. Work with an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney: PTSD claims can be complex, and an attorney can help prove your damages and negotiate with insurers.

💡 Important: Even if PTSD is invisible, it is very real and legally recognized. With the right evidence, you can pursue compensation just like you would for a physical injury.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What if I don’t have PTSD, but I have anxiety or depression?

Even if you haven’t been diagnosed with PTSD, you may still be able to file a claim for emotional or psychological trauma. This can include conditions such as anxiety, depression, or stress-related disorders that were caused or worsened by someone else’s actions.

How long do I have to file a claim for PTSD or emotional trauma?

The time you have to file a claim, called the statute of limitations, varies by state and the type of incident. It’s important to act promptly because waiting too long could prevent you from recovering compensation. Consulting an experienced attorney early can ensure your claim is filed on time.

Can a minor or child file a claim for emotional trauma?

Yes. Children can experience serious emotional harm from accidents, abuse, or other traumatic events. A parent or legal guardian can file a claim on their behalf, and courts often consider the child’s ongoing therapy, medical treatment, and quality-of-life impacts when determining damages.

Will insurance companies take emotional trauma claims seriously?

They should, but insurance companies sometimes try to minimize or deny claims for psychological injuries. Having clear documentation from mental health professionals and an attorney experienced in emotional trauma cases can help ensure your claim is taken seriously and that you receive fair compensation.

How DK Law Supports PTSD Victims

At DK Law, we understand that emotional trauma can be as challenging as physical injuries. That’s why we provide dedicated support for clients coping with PTSD.

Compassionate Care, 24 Hours a Day

We approach every case with empathy and understanding, ensuring you feel heard, respected, and supported throughout the legal process. Our team is available around the clock to answer questions, provide guidance, and address concerns whenever they arise.

Decades of Experience & Millions Won

With years of experience handling personal injury and emotional trauma cases, we know how to navigate complex claims and advocate effectively for PTSD victims. Our attorneys have secured millions in compensation for clients who have suffered from PTSD and other emotional injuries.

All the way Promise

From the first consultation to settlement or trial, DK Law is with you all the way—fighting for the justice and compensation you deserve.

Additional Resources

If you or a loved one is struggling with PTSD, these organizations can provide valuable information, support, and guidance:

National Center for PTSD – Offers information on symptoms, treatment, and coping strategies for both veterans and civilians.

American Psychiatric Association (APA) – Provides guidance on mental health conditions, diagnoses, and finding qualified professionals.

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) – Offers support groups, education, and advocacy for those affected by mental health conditions.