It's easy to see why accident victims are so likely to suffer from emotional ups and downs after a car accident. Dealing with physical injuries, disruption of normality, and financial issues after an accident can be tough. Many victims are unaware that their emotional suffering is considered an important part of their personal injury case. Read on and learn more.

Pain and Suffering: What to Know

Don't let your accident case be settled without the inclusion of pain and suffering. This form of damage is too important and valuable to be left out. Accident victims should know that pain and suffering are not going to be paid unless you take legal action against the driver and the insurer. When you think about how your life has changed since the accident and how that makes you feel, that is pain and suffering. If your injuries were severe, it's even more likely that you are owed pain and suffering damages. Speak to a personal injury lawyer soon after your accident for help in getting what you deserve.

Coping With Mental Health Issues After an Accident

Traumatic events like a car accident can leave victims suffering for months. Take a look at just a few problems victims can expect to cope with after an accident:

1. Anxiety — This form of emotional damage can be sneaky and masquerade as other things. Symptoms to watch out for include irritability, boredom, sleeping a lot, and nervousness over nothing in particular. Some accident victims may be too upset to drive or even ride in a vehicle again without therapy.
2. Changes in eating and sleeping habits — Appetite changes, whether it be overeating or having no appetite, can create secondary health problems if not addressed. Waking during the night, nightmares, and not being able to sleep can also negatively affect your health.
3. Depression — When you consider everything an accident victim endures, it's not surprising to encounter depression.
4. PTSD — Post-traumatic stress disorder can happen in some cases. Victims report being subjected to reliving the accident over and over again along with many other serious symptoms. Some who suffer from PTSD are unable to work, maintain relationships, and more.

Getting Treatment

Be sure to reach out and get professional mental health treatment. Doing so is important for several reasons. Firstly, experts understand how to help you process what you've been through and how to cope with it. Secondly, doing so increases your chances of being paid for your pain and suffering damages. It's just as important as seeking help for your physical injuries. Talk to your personal injury lawyer about being paid for the mental and physical pain you've endured.

Reach out to a law firm, such as Snyder & Wenner, P.C., to get the help you need.