Houston PTSD Lawyer

What is PTSD?

PTSD, aka post-traumatic stress disorder, was once called battle fatigue syndrome or shell shock. It is a serious condition that can develop after witnessing a traumatic event in which serious physical harm was threatened or transpired. PTSD is a long lasting consequence of a traumatic ordeal causing intense fear, helplessness, depression, and many other conditions. Although many victims are thought to be soldiers returning from war, it can happen to anyone. This condition can be triggered by any traumatic event, such as a vehicle accident, workplace accident, physical or sexual assault, or the sudden death of a loved one. Families of victims can also develop the condition. It is estimated approximately 6% of the United States population is suffering from PTSD or will at some point. A Houston PTSD lawyer at Craft Law Firm can help you fight to recover damages.

How PTSD Affects You

PTSD has a variety of symptoms, many of which make life difficult to live. In the worst case scenarios, the stress from the traumatic event intensifies as time goes by. The victim may experience flashbacks of the event, nightmares, depression, and/or anxiety. Other additional after effects may include:

Compulsive or repetitive behavior
Remembrance of the event
Problems maintaining relationships
Feelings of despair, rejection, and hopelessness
Constant withdrawal
Alcohol abuse
Substance abuse
Repressed memories
Quick temper or mood swings
Impaired social skills
Inability to find or hold a job

The treatment process for PTSD is complex and time consuming. Patients of PTSD who suffered a traumatic event as the result of the negligent actions of another may file a personal injury lawsuit to recover damages for:

Past and future medical bills
Pain and suffering
The cost of mental health services
In-patient and outpatient care
Lost earnings and earning capacity
Punitive damages, should the guilty parties be found to have acted with gross negligence