August 28, 2023
Last Updated: November 17, 2025
Medical Reviewer: Holly Sigsbee, LMHC
A car accident can be one of the most traumatic and life-changing events a person can experience. Beyond the physical injuries, which can range from minor bruises to severe, life-altering damage, many people face significant emotional and psychological challenges. For some, these challenges show up as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after a car accident, a serious psychiatric disorder that requires attention and treatment.
PTSD is a mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Car crashes are among the common causes of PTSD, as car accident survivors may relive the incident through intrusive thoughts (disturbing and involuntary thoughts, images or urges), flashbacks or nightmares. This psychiatric disorder often develops in the weeks or months following the traumatic event and, without proper treatment, can persist for a long time.
Yes, it’s normal to feel depressed, anxious or stressed after a car accident. People react differently – some may feel sad or hopeless, especially if their injuries make daily life harder. Depression and PTSD are different, but sometimes PTSD can develop after an accident and make emotions even harder to handle.
Recognizing symptoms of PTSD is crucial for seeking timely treatment. Common signs include:
The duration of PTSD varies from person to person. For some, symptoms go away within months, especially with proper mental health treatment. However, in other cases, PTSD can become a long-term condition that interferes significantly with daily life. Early intervention improves the level of recovery.
PTSD is diagnosed by a healthcare provider experienced in mental health through a combination of mental health evaluation and, sometimes, a physical exam. To be diagnosed with PTSD, a person must have symptoms lasting at least one month from these categories:
Symptoms may begin soon after the traumatic event or sometimes even months or years later. Mental health professionals also consider a diganosis of PTSD if symptoms cause significant distress or impair daily life.
Treatment for PTSD typically involves talk therapy, medication or a combination of both. Because PTSD affects people differently, treatments are tailored to each person’s needs.
Working closely with a mental health professional is vital to finding the most effective treatment plan. At Complete Care, people receiving rehabilitation can receive mental health counseling as part of their care.
A trained therapist can help you process trauma after an accident. Here are some tips that may also help:
Experiencing emotional and psychological challenges after a car accident is common, and for some people, these can develop into PTSD – a serious but treatable condition. Recognizing the signs early and seeking professional help are crucial steps toward recovery.
With the right diagnosis, therapy, medication and supportive self-care, many people find ways to heal and regain control over their lives. Remember, you don’t have to face this journey alone – help is available.
Contact Complete Care today to learn about our rehabilitation services or to schedule an appointment. Only patients receiving rehab services can access our mental health services. Call (844) 699-2273 to find a location near you.
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