Many people suffer the physical effects of motorcycle accidents, but when it comes to emotional injuries, they aren’t too sure if that they can collect compensation for this type of trauma. Make no mistake about it; depression is an injury that can be the result of a traumatic motorcycle accident.
Depression doesn’t discriminate. It can affect people from all walks of life including rich and poor, as well as those with all levels of education. This is why it is important to bring awareness to this illness so that people—no matter who they are—will know that they too can suffer the crippling effects of depression.
In light of Mental Illness Awareness Week from October 4-10, and seeing that October is National Depression Education and Awareness Month, it is important that people understand the causes, symptoms, treatments, and what life can be like when living with depression.
Causes of Depression
While most people assume that a person suffering from depression has a family history of it, this is simply not true. Any difficult time or life change can trigger depression—even in someone who has never had feelings of depression before. For example, a healthy motorcyclist can have a crash that could trigger the onset of a depressive disorder. This is especially the case when a motorcyclist’s injuries result in life-long changes or lives were lost in the wreck.
Symptoms of Depression
After motorcycle accidents, people who have never experienced depression before might not know what to be on the lookout for. They may know they don’t feel normal, but they can’t explain what they are experiencing. For this reason, it is a good idea to know about the signs and symptoms of depression, such as:
- Low self-esteem
- Insomnia or oversleeping
- Decreased energy
- Loss of interest in things once loved
- Irritability and restlessness
- Trouble concentrating and making decisions
- Feelings of sadness and anxiousness
- Feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness
- Persistent headaches and other physical disorders that don’t respond to treatment
- Thoughts of suicide and death
Treating Depression
When motorcyclists have any of the above symptoms, they should get a medical examination and talk with their doctors about their concerns. Unfortunately, there is shame associated with depression and mental illness that causes people to shy away from admitting they have this type of illness and seeking the treatment they need. However, it is critical to a person’s well-being that he or she seeks professional help. Treatment of depression can include antidepressant medications, psychotherapy, or a combination of both.
Living With Depression
People who live with depressive disorders are adversely affected. Depression can have an effect on one’s family life, work life, school life, relationships, sleeping and eating habits, and overall health. Unfortunately, depression can be a disabling condition—especially when a depressive condition isn’t treated.
Because October 8, 2015, is National Depression Screening Day, we encourage you to pay attention to your mental health and get a free mood disorder screening that is offered online or in-person.
Both physical and emotional injuries following motorcycle accidents are deserving of financial compensation. To learn more about your legal rights after a crash, request a free copy of our report, 10 Tips to Get the Maximum Compensation After a Maryland Accident.
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