Do You Keep Reliving The Scene Of The Car Accident Where You Stopped To Help? 3 Signs That You Could Benefit From Trauma Therapy
Most people don't ask to be a hero, yet you just couldn't stand by and watch when you knew that someone needed help. When a serious car accident occurs, it is common for bystanders to be there before the emergency responders. Your efforts to help save a life are honorable, yet you now must deal with the aftermath of being suddenly embroiled in a traumatic event. Unfortunately, it is common for people to deal with lingering effects scubas reliving the experience after a traumatic event. Now that you are home and safe, you can watch for these three signs that seeking professional help is necessary to help you cope with what you witnessed.
You Have Trouble Sleeping
Insomnia is a common symptom of post-traumatic stress. While being unable to fall asleep is fairly normal for a day or two after being involved in a traumatic event, you should be worried if it goes on too long. Frequently waking up during the night is another sign that you need to speak with a therapist. When you seek trauma therapy services, be sure to mention if you experience nightmares about the event. These could indicate that your mind is still trying to process the trauma.
You Experience Flashbacks
A flashback can be physical such as suddenly experiencing the sensations that you did when you were trying to help the accident victim. You may find that you jump at the sound of a horn honking or experience heart palpitations when you catch the scent of a fire. You can also have emotional flashbacks where you feel the urge to save someone or struggle with a sense of loss. During trauma therapy, you learn strategies for dealing with flashbacks such as grounding yourself in the present moment so that they are less disruptive to your life.
You Feel Unexplainable Emotions
Although you know that you realistically did everything possible to help save a life, you may still feel guilty if the person you helped didn't survive. You may also find yourself feeling angry without knowing why or terrified of it happening again. In some cases, you may even begin to avoid certain activities that trigger this emotional response. For instance, you may avoid driving down the street where the accident occurred, or you might refuse to watch a television show that might have scenes that involve vehicular collisions. Either way, this emotional response is valid, but you cannot let it rule your life. Talking to a specialist in trauma therapy can help you reframe your thinking so that you work through these emotions.
For more information, reach out to local trauma therapy services.