5 Ways Seeing a Psychologist During a Personal Injury Case Can Be Helpful

While you should get help for physical injuries after an accident, it’s also vital to seek whatever assistance you need for mental trauma.

Hiring the right personal injury lawyer is a step in the right direction since the legal professional will encourage you to attend doctor’s appointments, go to physiotherapy sessions, and see a psychologist if your mental health is in decline on the heels of a traumatic accident.

There are various types of personal injuries. Examples include — but aren’t limited to — car accidents, dog bites, slips or falls, medical malpractice, product liability, and workplace mishaps.

Some people are hesitant to sit down and talk about what they’re going through with a therapist or psychologist.

Here are five reasons to consider seeing a psychologist for your mental health needs during a personal injury situation.

1. Come to Terms With What’s Happened

An accident leading to a personal injury can take a toll on you physically and mentally. One benefit of seeing a psychologist is you can face the psychological and emotional impact of your situation head-on.

If involved in an accident, whether as the driver or passenger, it might take time before you’re comfortable in a car. It’s normal to feel some apprehension. But it’s not normal to stop driving or traveling in a vehicle entirely due to anxiety or fear. A psychologist will help you face the situation, accept your new reality, and move forward.

2. Learn Coping Skills

A psychologist will also give you coping skills. So, it’s not just about getting an opportunity to explain what you went through and how it’s impacting your life. The right professional will help you deal with the mental challenges that are common after a traumatic accident causing injury.

Again, it’s normal to experience a range of emotions after an accident. It only becomes an issue when these emotions affect your mental state to the point where you can’t function. Learning and exercising coping skills will positively impact your day-to-day life.

3. Positively Impact Your Personal Injury Case

You must see your doctor after an accident. On the one hand, doing so means your injuries can be diagnosed and a treatment plan can be developed. On the other hand, doing so means there’ll be documentation of doctor visits, exams, and other things that can help your lawyer build a strong claim.

If your doctor recommends seeing a therapist or psychologist, doing so is in your best interests. Failing to take any recommended treatment for your physical and psychological injuries can weaken your case since the insurance company can use that to suggest the injury claim is exaggerated. That’s why you must work with your lawyer.

4. Offers Support If You Have Life-Changing Injuries

Unfortunately, some injuries can change the course of your life. If involved in a slip or fall that requires ongoing physiotherapy, you may need to adopt a new normal. That can be hard — especially if you’re an active person who doesn’t want to sit still. But seeing a psychologist can help you accept what you can’t change. You can maintain good mental health.

5. Get Help Navigating Family Relationships

After an accident, you might need help with changes in your family dynamic. You might be unable to do some of the things you did before the accident, or you might have ups and downs that cause friction among family members. Seeing a psychologist can help navigate relationship issues.

Consider these five benefits of seeing a psychologist. While not everyone needs help with their mental health after an accident, some people do. If you struggle with mental health issues, reach out for the professional assistance required.