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Grief is a human emotion we all wish we could avoid but will likely someday experience. We typically associate it with the death of a loved one, but we might grieve anytime we lose something or someone important to us.
Aug. 30 is National Grief Awareness Day, and it’s time we recognize that accident victims often go through their own period of mourning, remind us Marietta Accident Attorney Ramiro Rodriguez, Jr.
We all know families grieve when a loved one dies in an accident.
But the thousands of people who survive with long-term injuries experience a different kind of loss. Depending on their circumstances, an injured person may grieve the abilities they used to have, the job they used to enjoy, or even the person they used to be.
When your life changes radically, a period of adjustment always follows — and there are methods you can use to come to terms with what has happened. You may be familiar with the five stages of grief: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. But you may not realize they can happen in any order or more than once.
Some people torture themselves with “what ifs,” thinking of how things could have gone differently. That’s bargaining. As a part of anger, others rail against the driver who hurt them, the world, their families, or even themselves. Some people drift from rage to depression, only to later switch back to anger. The journey is different for everyone.
Grief is normal, but the post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) some accident victims develop is a serious medical condition. It often results in intrusive memories, worsening mood, exaggerated emotional reactions, or avoidance of talking about the source of trauma. Clinical depression may also present in some victims, and some people turn to substance use to cope with their emotions. Also read: Types of Medical Complications Due to Car Accidents.
We recommend anyone experiencing these symptoms speak with a professional about what they are going through and feeling. Therapy is wise even for those processing their grief in a healthy way. And while they won’t take the place of a professional, support groups also help many people find a sense of belonging and camaraderie. No matter how you choose to seek help, remember you are not alone. Grief after an accident is normal, and it will eventually get easier to manage, even possibly end.
GA Injury Advocates