If you’ve been involved in a serious car accident the emotional impact can be just as difficult to deal with as any physical injury. Many people assume they’ll bounce back quickly, but the truth is, trauma can linger in ways that are often unexpected and overwhelming.
You might feel constantly anxious, avoid driving, wake up from nightmares, or find yourself snapping at loved ones. Or perhaps you feel nothing at all, just a numb, hollow sense that life isn’t quite right. If this sounds familiar, it’s important to know that you’re not alone and you don’t have to keep struggling on your own.
At our Brisbane psychology practice, we offer caring, expert counselling to help people recover from the emotional effects after a car accident, including Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Whether the accident happened recently or some time ago, healing is possible.
The Emotional Aftermath of a Road Accident
Being in a car accident can affect people in all sorts of ways. Some feel fearful or on edge every time they get into a car. Others experience panic attacks, intrusive thoughts, or flashbacks that come out of nowhere. It’s also common to feel guilty, especially if others were injured, or to worry constantly about what could have happened.
These kinds of emotional responses are completely normal after trauma, but when they start interfering with your day-to-day life like going to work, maintaining relationships, or just feeling okay in yourself, it may be time to get professional support.
Why See a Rehabilitation Counsellor After an Accident?
If you’re feeling unsure about what kind of support you need or where to start, a Rehabilitation Counsellor can be an excellent first step. They can conduct an initial rehabilitation assessment to help you understand the emotional and practical impact of the car accident, and work with you to develop a treatment and recovery plan. This plan might involve psychological counselling, return-to-work support, or referrals to other health professionals depending on your situation.
Talking to a Psychologist can also give you the tools to understand what’s going on and how to move forward. Counselling provides a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, fears, and emotions, even the ones you’re not ready to share with friends or family.
Through this process of assessment and counselling, many people find that their panic attacks ease, their sleep improves, and they start feeling more in control of their emotions. Some regain the confidence to drive again, and begin to look ahead with hope instead of dread.
When Should You Get Help?
Everyone responds differently after a car accident. Some people bounce back quickly; others find that distress lingers for weeks, months, or even years. You might notice that you’re avoiding driving, feeling constantly anxious or irritable, or using alcohol or other substances just to cope. Or maybe you’ve shut down emotionally and feel detached from life altogether.
If any of this sounds familiar or if you’re simply not coping as well as you’d like, that’s a sign to reach out for support. You don’t need to wait until things get worse before seeking help.
How the CTP Scheme Can Cover Counselling Costs
If you were not at fault and the car accident happened in Queensland, you may be entitled to funded counselling and treatment through the Queensland Compulsory Third Party (CTP) Insurance Scheme.
The CTP insurer of the at-fault driver is required to ensure that reasonable and appropriate treatment is made available and that includes counselling. You can also access other supports such as physiotherapy, GP consultations, return-to-work programs, and rehabilitation counselling. It’s important to get the details of the CPT insurer for the at-fault driver before attending services to ensure costs can be covered. You also have the right to choose your own qualified provider, so you can work with someone you feel comfortable with.
If you need help navigating the CTP scheme, our team can point you in the right direction or you can visit the Motor Accident Insurance Commission (MAIC) website for more information.
Let Us Help You Move Forward
Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, emotionally numb, or just not yourself, help is available and recovery is possible. You’ll be supported by both our Psychologists and our dedicated Rehabilitation Counsellor, who will guide you through recovery and help you move forward feeling stronger, more grounded, and in control of your life. If you’d like to talk to someone or book an assessment, give us a call on (07) 3352 3577, or fill out our Request a Booking form. We’re here when you’re ready.