According to one report from the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs (VA), car accidents are the leading cause of mental trauma in men and the second most common cause in women. In fact, about 9% of car accident victims will develop post-traumatic stress disorder.

After a traumatic crash, it’s common to prioritize physical injuries. But emotional trauma like anxiety and depression after a car accident often goes untreated. If you find yourself constantly reliving the crash, losing sleep, or withdrawing from loved ones, these are not just side effects—they’re signs of mental health injury.

Anxiety and Depression Are Common Among Car Accident Victims

No other known organisms are as complex as the human mind. Over 100 billion neurons work together in perfect synchronicity, transmitting information to and from the brain throughout the body. A traumatic event such as a car accident can affect this perfect equilibrium and cause it to degenerate.

It is normal to feel anxious, afraid, confused and shocked immediately after the accident. It’s your brain’s way of trying to make sense of what happened and provide coping mechanisms. However, this rollercoaster of emotions should subside in time and completely go away after a few months. If you are still experiencing stress and anxiety months after the car accident, then you should see a mental health therapist right away.

Keep in mind that the signs of a mental health problem might not show immediately after the accident. If you start noticing a deterioration in your mental health weeks or months after a car crash, then that is a sign that you need to go see a mental health counselor.

Signs It’s Time to See a Mental Health Therapist

Do You Have Anxiety or Depression After a Car Accident?

Watch for these signs:

• Persistent fear, panic, or dread while driving or riding in a vehicle
• Avoidance of places that remind you of the accident
• Feeling emotionally numb or disconnected
• Insomnia, nightmares, or flashbacks
• Appetite loss or sudden weight changes
• Difficulty focusing or completing daily tasks

These may indicate PTSD, anxiety, or clinical depression after your car accident—all of which require attention and may be compensable under your claim.

Can I Get Compensated for Anxiety or Depression After a Crash?

Yes—Missouri law allows car accident victims to seek compensation for emotional injuries. The key is timely documentation and proper medical diagnosis. Mental health treatment records, therapist notes, and personal journals all help prove your emotional suffering. Don’t wait—speak with a lawyer who understands how to build a strong case for mental distress after an auto accident.

We can Help

Our St. Louis car accident attorneys take mental health extremely seriously. We advise our clients to always consider the psychological impact of the crash and seek help as soon as they notice something is wrong.