MINNEAPOLIS, Minnesota. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD can be caused by many different types of traumatic events. Victims of mass violence, combat veterans, violence victims, and even car accident victims can suffer from PTSD. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, there are certain factors that can make a person more likely to suffer due to a car accident or other traumatic event. Direct exposure to the traumatic experience can make a person more likely to suffer from PTSD, though the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs notes that family and children of victims can also suffer from PTSD. The question about how PTSD affects family and friends of victims who were directly exposed to the trauma is one that is being carefully studied. Some early reports indicate that children could even “inherit” trauma from their parents, though those studies have not always stood up to scrutiny. However, secondary trauma can be very real. A child whose parent was seriously injured in a car accident might no longer want to ride in a car, for example.
According to the New York Times, researchers studying the effects of trauma on mice have seen modest impacts in trauma getting passed down to the second and even to the third generation. Researchers have found that living in a stressful environment during childhood can change the way a child processes stress. So, an early car accident or a parent’s car accident could potentially alter a child’s brain and alter how a child manages stress going forward. However, every person handles stress differently. Some people encounter very stressful situations and thrive, while others go on to develop PTSD. Early support and treatment can make a big difference in a patient’s outcome.
If you or a loved one were hurt in a car accident, it is important that you consider all the ways a car accident can impact you and your family’s health, including your emotional health. Victims of motor vehicle accidents may be entitled to seek damages for all kinds of rehabilitative and medical care available. The Law Office of Martin T. Montilino is a personal injury lawyer in Minneapolis, Minnesota who can assist you with your claim if you’ve been hurt.
There are many strategies for seeking care after an accident. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs offers many helpful resources for self-care and even has a mobile app to help you navigate the effects of PTSD. While some resilient individuals are able to heal on their own, others may need additional support, either through counseling or therapy. Unfortunately, sometimes counseling and therapy isn’t covered by insurance. If you or a loved one is struggling to afford the care needed after a car accident, reach out to the Law Office of Martin T. Montilino, a car accident attorneys in Minneapolis, Minnesota today. Our firm can speak to insurance adjusters and make a claim to assist you in getting the help you may need.
THE LAW OFFICE OF MARTIN T. MONTILINO, LLC
3109 Hennepin Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55408
Phone: (612) 236-1320