How to prioritise your mental health after an accident
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- September 11, 2025
An accident can leave more than just physical scars. Shock, stress, and anxiety often linger long after bruises heal, yet mental health is often overlooked in recovery. Prioritising your emotional wellbeing is just as important as following a physiotherapist’s advice or taking medication. If you’ve been the victim of an accident, here are some practical steps you can take to protect your mental health, from recognising trauma through to building a solid support system.
Watch out for signs of psychological trauma
It’s absolutely normal to feel shaken, fearful, or anxious after an accident. Some people may even relive the event through flashbacks or nightmares, while others feel more stressed, irritable, or have difficulty concentrating. These are all part of your body’s natural response to trauma. Understanding that such feelings are valid can help you be kinder to yourself. However, if the emotions feel overwhelming or don’t improve with time, you may be suffering from post-traumatic stress that requires professional support.
Get therapy and legal support
Talking to your GP is often the best first step since they can guide you towards counselling, CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), or NHS talking therapies. Private therapy may feel more accessible for you, or perhaps you would benefit from support groups where you can share your experience with others going through the same thing. And beyond medical care, even just the practical fallout of an accident (endless paperwork, or dealing with lost income) can weigh heavily. Working with personal injury solicitors who will handle the legal process can lift this burden, so you can focus on your mental and physical recovery.
Breathe and connect: Practical steps for daily wellbeing and resilience
Even the simplest routines can work wonders to steady the mind. Do gentle exercise like yoga or take short walks to reduce stress hormones and restore balance. Take time to engage in mindfulness practices such as breathing exercises or journaling to give you moments of calm. Eating balanced meals and staying hydrated also support emotional stability. And don’t forget to maintain social ties, even if it’s a quick chat with a friend.
Build a strong support system
Recovery is so much easier when you’re not alone. Keep in mind that family and friends may want to help but might not know exactly how. You need to communicate what you want – whether it’s a lift to a doctor’s appointment or simply someone to listen. And look into support groups for extra reassurance – talking to others who have undergone a similar experience can help you feel understood. And remember that while support is important, don’t be afraid to set boundaries. If a conversation about the accident feels draining, it’s okay to pause or change the subject.
Practical steps to ease financial and legal worries
Money worries can seriously affect your mental health after an accident. Medical costs, reduced income, and even benefits applications can all add to the strain. It can be difficult, but try and face and deal with these challenges early (by speaking to a financial adviser, applying for government support, or getting legal help) to ease the pressure. Once you reduce financial stress, it frees up energy for emotional recovery.
Protect your mental wellbeing after an accident
You need to look after your mind as well as your body after an accident. Recognising trauma, seeking professional support, building positive routines, and addressing financial worries will all contribute to stronger mental health and put you on the path to a speedier recovery.
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Our Editorial Team are writers and experts in their field. Their views and opinions may not always be the views of Wellbeing Magazine. If you are under the direction of medical supervision please speak to your doctor or therapist before following the advice and recommendations in these articles.
