Suffering an injury due to the negligence of another can cause a variety of reactions, including fear, anger and a sense of injustice over any physical changes that might occur, including long-term mobility issues. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration reports that such feelings may last for months after an accident and may grow worse without intervention.
After an injury, family members and friends may want to monitor the affected individual for any signs that he or she may suffer from emotional distress.
1. Self-isolation
People who suffer an injury that changes their lives may draw away from family and friends as they attempt to navigate these changes. They may slow or stop communication and make excuses for their behavior. Sometimes, self-isolation may have ties to depression as well, especially if the injured person can no longer enjoy hobbies that were once important to them.
2. Reduced energy
Those who suffered a severe personal injury may sleep more often to escape physical and emotional pain. Medication may also make them drowsy and affect their sleep patterns. While this is common enough, a lack of energy and desire to leave their homes may indicate the growth of emotional issues, and retreating to a safe place, such as one’s bedroom and bed, is often a manner of self-medication.
3. New or worsening drug or alcohol abuse
In some cases, people suffering from the emotional and mental pain of an accident may turn to drugs or alcohol to numb it. Those who once had a substance abuse issue may return to that behavior, and those with no previous problems may begin to misuse prescription medication.
Family members may want to reach out to a therapist or psychiatrist regarding their loved one’s emotional issues, as sessions with an objective observer may prevent these problems from growing worse.