Fort Cavazos in Killeen, Texas, houses over 36,000 military members, making this one of the largest military bases in the world. Unfortunately, for many of our veterans, the battle doesn’t always end when they return home. While life as a civilian should offer peace and a sense of normalcy, everyday events can sometimes trigger deep-seated trauma.
Even a minor car crash can be a significant trigger for veterans experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In fact, car crashes are one of the leading causes of PTSD in adults in the U.S. For veterans, the impact can be even more traumatic, given their unique experiences and the nature of their service. Here’s how different aspects of a car crash can trigger PTSD in veterans.
Loud Noises
Loud noises can be a major trigger for a veteran with PTSD, as it is a reminder of previous trauma such as gunshots or the loud blast of explosives. In a car accident, loud noises are inevitable. Two vehicles colliding can be incredibly loud and traumatizing.
However, an airbag deployment can be particularly triggering to a veteran. The sudden impact and blow of the bag bursting from the steering wheel can resemble the sound of an explosive. This can cause flashbacks from prior experiences and trauma being brought to the forefront.
Stress
The amygdala is the part of the brain that controls our stress reaction. People with PTSD have proven to have excessive activity in this part of their brain, meaning their fight-or-flight response is almost always present.
When additional stress is added, especially in a situation like a car crash, underlying PTSD can be triggered. The overwhelming feeling of present danger can cause the veteran to enter a manic episode, causing the potential for even more harm to themselves.
Pain
Pain is our body’s way of telling us something is wrong, or that we are in danger of getting hurt. When a veteran experiences pain from a car crash injury, even if it’s minor, their body can enter that fight-or-flight stage because the pain may heighten a sensation of overwhelming fear.
Experiencing onset pain can even cause recurring or chronic pain from injuries unrelated to the crash. This may then create a cycle of physical and emotional distress that increases or aggravates PTSD symptoms, making recovery even more challenging.
Additional Trauma
Beyond the effects a car crash can have on underlying PTSD, it can introduce additional trauma. The suddenness of the event, increased realization of danger, and aftermath of dealing with medical treatments and legal proceedings can all add layers of stress and anxiety.
In addition to the side effects veterans may already be experiencing due to PTSD, they may also develop nightmares, driving anxiety, and fear of leaving the house, making it harder to be present in everyday life. This can lead to isolation and cause further damage to mental health.
If you or someone you know is a veteran struggling with PTSD after a car crash, it’s important to seek help. Try reaching out to family and friends or consulting with a mental health professional.
Also, contact a qualified Killeen, Texas, personal injury attorney. They will listen to your unique story, help set up doctor’s visits, and get you full value for your injury.
