Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a condition that develops after a person experiences a particularly traumatizing event. For towboat and marine industry workers, this usually involves a permanently-debilitating injury. PTSD is a type of anxiety disorder that has multiple symptoms, and may lead, if untreated, to altering the course of your, or a loved one’s life. Some of those who are injured in the marine industry may be so debilitated by fear that they can no longer perform their job duties.
There are certain criteria that go into a posttraumatic stress disorder diagnosis. First is exposure to a traumatic event. One of the other major side effects of PTSD is re-experiencing of the traumatic accident. What this means is that you or your loved ones may experience flashbacks, nightmares, or persistent thoughts about the accident, causing the person to re-experience the event with all the emotions that were originally experienced. Repeatedly recalling these painful memories can be psychologically and emotionally damaging.
Another manifestation of PTSD is avoidance syndrome. In order to cope with the emotional trauma, a victim may attempt to avoid all things that they associate with the trauma. For example, if a worker was injured on a river, then they may no longer be able to go near a river or other body of water. Individuals may also avoid certain people or any type of situation that might lead them to re-experience the pain of that traumatic event.
The last three major consequences of PTSD are hypervigilance, social impairment, and an inability to cope with the event even after a long period of time. Hypervigilance causes a victim to be constantly on edge or “wired.” They may have difficulty sleeping, have heightened feeling of anger, and have a difficult time concentrating. The emotional trauma can be significant enough to impact the individual’s social relationships and everyday activities. Those who experience these symptoms for more than thirty days may be diagnosed with PTSD.
In addition to the physical trauma you may have suffered in a marine accident, you may still be suffering from emotional damage. If you believe that you have PTSD, speak with a doctor. The Dysart Law Firm, P.C., is also here to listen and help.
To learn more, contact the Dysart Law Firm to set up a free evaluation of your case. You may be entitled to significant compensation.