Injuries That Don’t Bleed: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
What Is It And How Much Is It Worth?
Almost everyone who is involved in an accident will suffer a degree of shock. Even where the accident is a “near miss” and no physical injury is involved, it is quite normal to get the “shakes”. Witnessing an accident can also produce a psychological injury, especially where the event witnessed is horrific.
In some cases, however, the psychological reaction to an accident (especially where one is physically injured as well) goes beyond being shaken up or upset.
It was only after 1980 that the term “post traumatic stress” came about. Previously called shell shock by some, this term found its way into psychology after the Vietnam War. It’s now called Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). It refers to a psychological disorder that can develop after being exposed to trauma, such as an accident, assault or any situation where there is a real or perceived threat.
Not everybody involved in an accident, especially a minor one, will have this problem. However some people most certainly do, and the effects can be immediately evident or sometimes not noticed for months.
What are the symptoms?
- unwelcome flashbacks of the event, especially when reminded of it
- Insomnia
- Feelings of guilt (even when it wasn’t your fault)
- Feelings of isolation or that no-one understands
- Inability to concentrate or work properly
- Hyper vigilance (being more careful than is necessary)
- Becoming irritable, subject to bad moods or mood swings
- Depression or anxiety
- Incontinence
- Exaggerated startle response (being extra jumpy)
- Breathing difficulties or increased pulse rate
What is the treatment and can the cost be claimed?
Fortunately, these distressing symptoms can be relieved or at least kept to a manageable level by Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT). This therapy re-trains the mind to question and banish the negative thoughts which produce the symptoms. The therapy is performed by a trained psychologist or therapist and is usually considered to be very pleasant and enjoyable. A specialist hypnotherapist may also be able to help.
This therapy is available on the NHS, but there may be a fairly lengthy waiting list. The private cost is around £100 per session and the number of sessions varies from 6 to 12 usually, depending on the severity of the problems and the claimant’s susceptibility to this form of treatment.
The cost, if paid for privately, can be fully included within a claim, as can associated costs, such as travel to and from the therapist.
If a diagnosis of Post Traumatic Stress is made (as it must, to be claimable), it is very common for CBT to be recommended. It is a remarkably successful therapy and clearly demonstrates the unity of, and interaction between, mind and body. Some claimants find the techniques taught serve them well with other life problems in the future.
How much is it worth?
This of course depends on the length and severity of the symptoms. Here is a rough guide to compensation for a PTSD injury at 2009 levels *:
Very Serious
This category involves permanent effects which will prevent the person from working or functioning at pre-traumatic levels. All aspects of life will be badly affected. Very few people fall into this category. It’s worth between £40,000 to about £65,000.
Serious
Those in this category will have a brighter prognosis, but there will still be significant problems for the foreseeable future. It’s worth between £15,000 and £37,000, but most awards in this category are worth between £20,000 and £25,000.
Moderate
Here, the claimant will have largely recovered and any ongoing effects are not particularly disturbing. It’s worth between £5,250 and £15,000.
Minor
Most claimants will fall into this category. There will be a complete recovery within about 2 years and any symptoms beyond that will be quite minor. It’s worth between £2,500 and £5,250.
What do I do if I think I’ve been injured in this way?
If you think you may have suffered a psychological injury (possibly combined with or as a result of physical injuries), contact us. Here at Gordons, we have the experience and expertise to refer you to the right expert for assessment and treatment and will ensure that clients who suffer this type of injury are fully compensated.
If you feel you may have a claim or simply require further information, please complete the online questionnaire or alternatively please contact us at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , or ring us on freephone 08000 815 815.
