Car accident support

[Rabbitroad29]

Hi there
I had a car accident two weeks ago and I'm still struggling a little. It was a direct impact in the side of my car. I have no physical injuries.. I was lucky to walk Away. . GP said I had shock and told me to take it easy and gave me tablets for dizziness I feel like I'm hungover. Anyone been through a similar experience? Desperate for a return to normal life. I'm not great at resting.

It's very normal to feel like this after a car accident (in my extensive second-hand experience). Take it easy as you may still be in shock. Gentle exercise, nutritious food, relaxing activities, mindless TV. Sleep when you need to/can. Get back in the car as soon as you can, even if it is just sitting in the driver's seat with the engine off (to start with - assuming you drive). Don't isolate yourself from other people. Go out a bit even if you don't quite feel like it. Talk to other people about how you feel.

If you are still struggling by a month after the accident, you can self-refer to your local IAPT service for psychological therapy.

I was in a crash over a year ago and still suffer from anxiety as a result. As above try to take care of yourself and rest. Consider speaking to the GP again or getting counselling.. it's quite a trauma.

@rabbitroad29 It is quite a trauma but most people's symptoms will settle spontaneously without any need for medication or psychological therapy. I would be wary of over-pathologising and give yourself time to recover naturally. I'd only see the GP/refer yourself to psychological therapy if things don't seem to be improving after a month.

@extraordinarymachine - have you had some CBT/EMDR?

I was in a bad car crash over 10 yrs ago - car rolled several times and ended up in a field, we walked away intact ( I suspect I had severe whiplash after ) but mentally it took several months to come to terms with the shock and aftermath. I am a nervous passenger at times even now.

I agree with getting some professional support and really taking care of yourself .

@Egghead68 I am thank you.