Children in auto accidents are often dealing with not only the physical injuries they have sustained but the mental trauma they have sustained as well. This page will tell you what signs to look for that signal mental trauma and how to respond to it. It also lists places you can go to get outside help for a child.

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As with any violent event, the effects of this on you and your child can be overwhelming. Often, individuals who are involved in automobile accidents feel a sense of loss of control. Children, and adults, often fear traveling in automobiles for a period of time. Additionally, other signs and symptoms may develop and if these persist there may be a need for counseling or other forms of intervention.

	Signs & Symptoms

• Sleeplessness, nightmares
• Apathy
• Inability to get along with others, particularly in close relationships
• Paranoia and distrust
• Unwillingness to discuss or revisit in any way the site of the trauma
• Persistent, intense fear and anxiety
• Feeling easily irritated or agitated
• Having difficulty concentrating
• Feeling numb or detached
• No longer finding pleasure in previously enjoyable activities
• Feeling helpless or "out of control"
• Experiencing intense survivor guilt
• Being preoccupied with the traumatic event
• Physical symptoms such as headache, gastrointestinal distress, or dizziness
• Suicidal thoughts, plans, or gestures