Mental Health Concerns of Car Accident Survivors

Purpose: Most research on post-trauma mental health focuses on war veterans or survivors of sexual assault. Recent studies of the aftermath of man-made and natural disasters expanded knowledge of mental health needs of survivors of trauma. Yet, survivors of everyday traumas such as car accidents remain understudied. This study documented mental health needs of recent survivors of car and other accidents. Study Design: In-depth interviews were conducted with recent accident survivors at least 30 days post-event to identify both mental health and health related needs of car accident victims who sustained significant injury. Significant injury was defined as requiring hospitalization for at least 3 days. Results: Respondents reported needing the most support immediately after the accident, especially when their medications prevented them from thinking clearly or being able to articulate their needs. This phase was characterized by realization of long-term disability and adapting to other stresses linked to the accident (grief, law suits, etc.). The second period of most risk appeared to be during the transition to home from hospital or rehabilitation. This marked the greatest risk of depression and suicidal ideation. Some patients' social support networks narrowed, leaving patients isolated. Conclusions: Counseling for trauma patients needs to include a focus on returning home. Patients' needs should be assessed for sufficient social support prior to release to home. Social Support networks may need some training on identifying and coping with onset of depression. Brief psycho-educational interventions may be helpful in preventing post-release depression.