Understanding the Psychological Effects of Maritime Accidents
When we discuss offshore injuries caused by maritime accidents, we tend to focus on physical injuries, such as bone fractures, burns, traumatic brain injuries, etc. However, maritime accidents can leave lasting psychological injuries in addition to physical ones. In this blog post, we’re going to take a close look at the psychological impact of maritime injuries along with coping strategies for maritime survivors.
Understanding PTSD After Maritime Accidents
A significant portion of individuals involved in maritime accidents develop Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). This is one of the most common psychological problems experienced by those who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event, such as a maritime accident. PTSD is triggered by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event, such as a maritime accident.
There are four main symptoms of PTSD:
- Intrusive thoughts, such as flashbacks, involuntary memories, nightmares, etc.
- Avoidance, including avoiding people, places, activities, objects, and situations that may trigger distressing memories.
- Alterations in cognition and mood like memory loss, negative and distorted thoughts, feeling emotionally detached or numb, feelings of fear, anger, or guilt, an inability to experience positive emotions, etc.
- Alterations in arousal and reactivity, including self-destructive thoughts, irritability, angry outbursts, being easily startled, paranoia and lack of trust, having problems concentrating or sleeping, etc.
Most victims begin to experience the symptoms of PTSD three to six months after the triggering event. The condition can affect a person’s ability to do their job, perform day-to-day activities, relate to family and friends, and lead to substance abuse and other problems.
It’s important to seek help for dealing with the symptoms of PTSD. Treatment for PTSD can include therapy and medication. Groups that offer maritime PTSD support can also be helpful. There are many effective coping strategies for maritime survivors.
Other Psychological Effects Of Maritime Accidents
In addition to PTSD, the psychological effects of maritime accidents can lead to a range of other issues, including stress, anxiety disorders, and depression. These problems can result in physical symptoms such as:
- Fatigue
- Muscle tension
- Sweats
- Increased blood pressure
- Increased heart rate
- Headaches
- Body pains
Long-term emotional fallout is common. Survivors often struggle with feelings of guilt, survivor’s guilt, or a loss of trust in maritime travel, particularly after accidents that involve loss of life. The emotional wounds of a maritime accident can persist for years after the accident, affecting relationships, work, and overall quality of life.
Legal Support And Psychological Recovery
Extensive therapy and treatment may be needed to recover from the psychological effects of a maritime accident. This care can be very expensive. How can a maritime worker afford these expenses when the symptoms of their psychological disorders prevent them from returning to work?
If the accident that caused the psychological disorder was the result of negligence, maritime laws like the Jones Act give the injured worker the right to seek compensation for their accident-related injuries from the party responsible for the accident. This includes physical injuries as well as psychological ones.
Filing a maritime claim to recover compensation for mental suffering and anguish can be a challenge. Unlike physical injuries, the extent of psychological injuries can be difficult to establish. Victims need a law firm with the expertise and resources to fully investigate an accident and assemble the evidence needed to support a claim for PTSD or similar disorders.
Lewis, Kullman, Sterbcow & Abramson, LLC is a leading maritime law firm serving injured workers across the United States. Our team of New Orleans maritime accident lawyers understand the complexities of maritime law and have extensive experience advocating for clients who have suffered psychological harm due to maritime accidents. We’re here to help the victims of maritime accidents navigate the legal system to pursue compensation for their psychological injuries. We are dedicated to fighting for our client’s rights and ensuring they receive the fair and just compensation they need to return their lives to normal.
Speak To A Maritime Accident Attorney Today
Maritime accidents leave more than physical wreckage in their wake; they also leave invisible scars on the survivors. Understanding and addressing the psychological effects of these accidents is essential for the well-being of those affected. With the right legal support and awareness of their rights, survivors can take steps towards recovery and find closure after such traumatic experiences.
If you’ve been injured in a maritime accident, schedule a free consultation with Lewis, Kullman, Sterbcow & Abramson, LLC today. An experienced maritime injury attorney will review your case, answer any legal questions you may have, and offer professional advice on the best way to move forward with your claim. Together, we can achieve justice and healing for you and your family.