Rebuilding Confidence After a Traumatic Accident
The aftermath of a serious car accident has a genuine emotional and psychological effect on an individual. It is common and almost expected for people to struggle with confidence. However, recovery is possible. Our compassionate team at Runion Personal Injury Lawyers understands the emotional aspects of accident recovery and is here to provide support, not just legal assistance. We can help you and your family navigate the complex process of filing a claim, allowing you to focus on what matters most: healing.
Written By: Derick Runion
Last Updated: July 14, 2025
Table of Contents
- Why Confidence Often Takes a Hit After a Crash
- First Steps to Regain Confidence After an Accident
- Practical Strategies to Rebuild Confidence Behind the Wheel
- Helping a Loved One Through Post-Accident Anxiety
- What the Research Says About Emotional Recovery
- When Legal and Emotional Recovery Overlap
- Helpful Resources and Further Reading
- Reclaim Control of Your Life, One Step at a Time
Why Confidence Often Takes a Hit After a Crash
Psychological Impact of Car Accidents
It is not unusual for individuals to have strong emotional responses to a car crash, including anxiety, panic, sleep problems, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Physical Trauma’s Role in Emotional Recovery
The trauma of a collision can manifest both emotionally and physically. Chronic pain, healing injuries, and long-term rehabilitation can erode self-esteem and personal independence.
The Fear of Driving Again
According to one source, around 66% of Americans have some degree of anxiety while driving. However, amaxophobia, the fear of driving, takes this anxiety to another level. Individuals with this phobia may fear being both the driver and a passenger in a vehicle. Even minor accidents or near-misses can lead people to avoid cars altogether.
First Steps to Regain Confidence After an Accident
Allow Yourself Time to Heal Emotionally
Fear and anxiety are a normal part of the trauma and healing process. Consider journaling, resting, and practicing emotional expression to combat these complicated feelings and emotions.
Lean on Trusted Support Systems
Speaking to a friend or family member may also benefit you in the aftermath of an accident. Some individuals may even join a peer support group where others who have had similar experiences can share their stories and healing journeys. There are also survivor forums and trauma support networks for victims of car crashes.
Recognize When to Seek Professional Help
Sometimes, the emotions and feelings we are experiencing require further support. There is no shame in seeking professional therapy to support your healing. Some practical forms of treatment that people can turn to include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT),
- Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy (EMDR)
- Exposure therapy
Practical Strategies to Rebuild Confidence Behind the Wheel
Gradual Exposure Techniques
With gradual exposure techniques, you can begin slowly re-introducing yourself to the world of driving. This process starts with steps such as being a passenger, riding in familiar areas, and eventually transitioning to short solo drives. It is essential to be patient with yourself and celebrate each win, no matter how small.
Defensive Driving or Refresher Courses
Regaining technical control of driving can improve your emotional control. Arizona-based programs, as well as national ones like AAA or local driving schools, can help you review traffic laws and ensure you fully understand them.
Breathing and Grounding Techniques for Road Anxiety
Breathing and grounding techniques are a form of mindfulness exercises. These strategies are designed to bring you into the present and reduce overwhelming or fearful thought patterns.
- Inhale through your nose for four counts
- Hold your breath for four counts
- Exhale through your mouth for four counts
- Hold again for four counts
- Repeat for 1–5 minutes to calm your nervous system
Use your senses to bring yourself back to the present:
- Name five things you can see
- Name four things you can feel
- Name three things you can hear
- Name two things you can smell
- Name one thing you can taste
Mindful Driving Check-In
- Notice Your Breath: Without changing it, notice your natural breathing. Feel the air moving in and out as you drive.
- Tune into Senses: Pay attention to what you see—the colors of the sky, trees, or cars ahead. Listen to the hum of your engine or tires on the road.
- Release Tension: Check your shoulders, jaw, and hands. Gently release any tightness. Grip the wheel lightly but securely.
- Silently repeat: I am calm and aware. I will arrive safely.
Helping a Loved One Through Post-Accident Anxiety
Seeing a loved one go through post-accident anxiety can be difficult and emotional. You may feel helpless and think there is nothing you can do to support them. Fortunately, there are always ways to be proactive in aiding your loved one’s recovery.
Recognize the Signs of Ongoing Trauma
Look for indicators that your loved one is experiencing ongoing trauma, including the following:
- Irritability
- Withdrawal
- Sleep changes
- Extreme caution
- Avoidance
Be Patient and Supportive, Not Pushy
It is essential to be aware of what is helpful to say and what to avoid. Below are examples of supportive verbal affirmations you can share with them:
- “I’m here for you. You don’t have to go through this alone.”
- “It’s okay to feel how you feel right now.”
- “Would it help if I came with you to your appointment?”
- “Do you want to talk, or would you rather just sit together?”
- “Take your time. I’m not going anywhere.”
In addition to sharing positive statements, you can offer additional support, such as driving or accompanying them to therapy.
Coping After a Car Accident: Recovery and PTSD Checklist
The following checklist is a helpful tool to use either for yourself or a loved one who has experienced a car accident:
- Check in with your body daily—notice tension, pain, or emotional reactions
- Practice grounding exercises
- Limit exposure to accident triggers until you feel more resilient
- Talk about what happened with a therapist or support group
- Ask for practical support, such as accompaniment on rides or errands
- Use calming tools, such as soothing music, warm baths, or walks in safe spaces
- Know when to get professional help, such as if nightmares, panic, or avoidance persist
State Support
- EMPACT Crisis Line (Arizona): 480-784-1500 (Maricopa County)
- Arizona Statewide Mental Health Crisis Line: 1-844-534-HOPE (4673)
- Teen Lifeline (Arizona): Call or text 602-248-8336 (TEEN)
National Support
- National Center for PTSD Self-Help Tools: Free mobile apps, tips, and printable guides
- Sidran Institute Help for Trauma Survivors: Education, coping tips, and how to find trauma-informed therapists
- SAMHSA’s National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357): 24/7, free, confidential support for any mental health need
What the Research Says About Emotional Recovery
- According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, over 40 million adults in the United States experience anxiety.
- About 6 out of every 100 people, or 6% of the U.S. population, will have PTSD at some point in their lives.
- Individuals with PTSD often have co-occurring conditions, such as depression, anxiety, or substance use disorder.
- In one scientific study, it was found that, following a transport-related crash, 42–55% of individuals exhibit mental health symptoms such as anxiety and depression, which can persist for up to two years after the injury.
- Another study from the UK indicates that approximately 25-33% of individuals involved in a road incident may develop PTSD within 30 days.
- 2023 research shows that post-traumatic stress disorder is the most common mental disorder occurring among survivors of road traffic accidents.
When Legal and Emotional Recovery Overlap
Unresolved legal matters can prolong emotional distress, especially in the aftermath of a traumatic auto accident. The skillset and tools our legal team is equipped with are part of a holistic support system. Our goal is to restore your peace of mind, not just recover compensation.
Helpful Resources and Further Reading
A plentiful number of resources are available to educate you on the process of healing further. These include readings on mental health support and trauma recovery, as well as direct links to PTSD hotlines and therapy directories.
Mental Health Support
- National Institute of Mental Health: 1‑800‑985‑5990
- National Alliance on Mental Illness HelpLine: Free, confidential info and peer support via phone at 1‑800‑950‑6264, text “NAMI” to 62640
- American Psychological Association Crisis Hotlines
PTSD Hotlines
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 for immediate mental health crisis support
- PTSD Foundation of America: Trauma helpline at 877‑717‑PTSD (7873)
Arizona Trauma Recovery Resources
- Trauma Recovery Services of Arizona: Navajo‑owned virtual trauma therapy offering EMDR and PTSD support
- Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System: Statewide behavioral health services, including mental health counseling, crisis services, and provider directories
- La Frontera Empact‑SPC: Arizona-based nonprofit offering counseling, crisis intervention, substance abuse support, and mental health services
- Arizona Trauma Counseling and Therapy
- PTSD Treatment in Arizona at Copper Springs
Therapy Directories
- National Center for PTSD: Searchable therapist directory for CPT, PE, EMDR, and other PTSD-focused clinicians
- SAMHSA Behavioral Health Services Locator: Nationwide directory of mental health and substance-use treatment providers; call 1‑800‑662‑HELP
- American Psychological Association Psychologist Locator: Find licensed psychologists by location, specialty, insurance, and provider traits
- Psychology Today Therapist Directory: Includes filters for online/telehealth, specialties, and support groups
- Anxiety and Depression Association of America: Searchable by location and disorder, includes trauma‑focused therapists
Reclaim Control of Your Life, One Step at a Time
Recovery is a nonlinear process, and everyone will progress at a different rate. You can reclaim confidence and control over your emotional well-being. You deserve to feel safe again, in your body and on the road. We encourage you to review our testimonials and contact us for legal assistance today.
