The Bureau of Labor Statistics highlighted 174,000 construction site illness or injury cases in 2020 alone. These incidents can result in minor injuries as well as severe and life-altering trauma.
As a victim of a construction accident, one may experience physical pain and financial strain, but what is often overlooked is the psychological impact it can have on an individual. Here, we will explore the various psychological traumas that can result from construction site accidents and offer resources for coping and recovery.
Let’s first define this type of trauma!
What is Psychological Trauma?
Psychological trauma is defined as an emotional overreaction to the experience of a deeply distressing or disturbing event that overwhelms the individual’s ability to cope. It can have physical, emotional, and behavioral effects that can be short-term or long-lasting.
In the case of construction site accidents, victims may experience psychological trauma due to the suddenness and severity of their injuries.
Types of Psychological Trauma Resulting from Construction Site Accidents
Construction site accidents can leave lasting psychological impacts that affect an individual’s mental health and overall well-being.
Here are some common types of psychological trauma that can result from such accidents:
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): It occurs after a person witnesses a traumatic event or experiences one themselves. Individuals may experience flashbacks, nightmares, and severe anxiety, making it difficult for them to function normally.
- Depression: The pain and suffering caused by a construction site accident can lead to feelings of hopelessness and despair, resulting in depression. This mental health disorder can cause individuals to lose interest in previously enjoyable activities and have difficulty finding motivation.
- Anxiety: Construction site accidents can also trigger feelings of anxiety, causing individuals to worry about their safety and the safety of others constantly. This can lead to panic attacks, difficulty sleeping, and other symptoms that may interfere with daily life.
- Survivor’s Guilt: In cases where individuals witness or survive a construction accident while others do not, they may experience feelings of guilt and self-blame for not being able to prevent the accident or save others from harm.
Coping and Recovery Resources
If you or someone you know has experienced a construction site accident, seeking help is crucial in coping and recovering from any resulting psychological trauma. Here are some resources that can provide support and guidance:
- Construction Accident Lawyer: A construction accident attorney can assist with legal matters, such as seeking compensation for pain and suffering. They can also provide support for mental health experts.
- Mental Health Professionals: Seeking therapy or counseling from a mental health expert can help people process and cope with the traumatic experience of a construction site accident.
- Support Groups: Connecting with people with similar experiences can provide a sense of understanding and validation. Support groups can offer a non-judgmental space where individuals can express their experiences and receive support from those who have been through similar situations.
- Self-Care Practices: Self-care practices, such as exercise, proper nutrition, and relaxation techniques, can help reduce symptoms of psychological trauma and promote overall well-being.
Keep The Spirit!
Construction site accidents have physical and financial consequences and significant psychological impacts. Acknowledging and addressing these traumas by seeking professional help, connecting with support groups, and practicing self-care is essential.
Seeking help is not a sign of weakness but a step towards healing and recovery. So, if you or someone you know has experienced a construction site accident, reach out for support and take care of your mental health.
You can contact a construction accident attorney if you have legal concerns or need assistance seeking compensation for pain and suffering. Together, we can raise awareness, promote safety measures, and support one another in overcoming the psychological traumas of construction site accidents.