Written by:
Arthi T
Being involved in a motorbike accident can be jarring. Physical injuries are just one aspect of that. There are also mental wounds that require healing, but finding treatment is increasingly difficult as demand across the state intensifies and mental health resources struggle to keep up.
After a traumatic experience like a bike accident, flashbacks are common. Unlike car passengers, bike riders have less protection, making collisions with cars particularly violent and unexpected. motorbike accidents are commonly linked with visible injuries like scrapes and bruises, as well as head injuries. However, there’s often an overlooked aspect of harm that we don’t frequently address. Those involved in such accidents can suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and other related issues.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), India registers 1 to 2 lakh Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) every year, one of the highest in the world. Experts say that 95% of the victims of road accidents in India do not get basic treatment within one hour of TBI, which results in high mortality as well as morbidity like psychological disorders in the future.
The National Institute of Mental Health states that a psychiatrist or psychologist can diagnose PTSD in an adult after a bike crash, if they have all of the following symptoms for at least one month:
At least one re-experiencing symptom
At least one avoidance symptom
At least two arousal and reactivity symptoms
At least two cognition and mood symptoms
How long does it take to recover from a bike accident?
The duration of recovery from a bike accident varies depending on the severity of the injuries sustained. For instance, if you have a broken bone or a sprain, recovery typically takes a minimum of two months. Minor injuries may heal in less than two months. It’s important to recognize that each individual’s recovery process is unique, so avoid pushing yourself beyond your comfort level.
Maintaining a healthy diet and staying hydrated are crucial for optimal recovery. Nutritious food acts as medicine, aiding in the healing process and minimizing downtime. Taking adequate rest and minimizing stress can also contribute to a quicker recovery time.
Patience is key during the recovery process, as everyone heals at their own pace. Allow yourself the time needed to fully recuperate without rushing the process.
Need help covering accident treatment costs?
How can I deal with the emotional trauma of a motorbike accident?
Trauma includes the physical and psychological injuries that result from events that cause significant distress, such as a motorbike accident. The psychological impact of a traumatic event can have long-lasting consequences, such as depression, anxiety disorders, or post-traumatic stress disorder. If you find yourself constantly dealing with these issues during your recovery journey, personal injury attorneys recommend doing the following to help you cope:
Practise self-care
Self-care is crucial when recovering from a traumatic event, such as a motorbike accident. Take time to rest and engage in activities that help you relax and lift your moods. Ensure you also get enough sleep, manage stress levels through meditation or exercise, and eat nutritious foods.
Create a support system
Your family members and friends can be a great source of emotional support during your recovery journey. They are closest to you and have your best interests in mind, so they can offer emotional support to help you cope. Let them know how they can help make life easier for you.
Seek professional help
Therapy is an effective tool to help you cope with emotional trauma after an accident. A skilled therapist can help bring out the deep-seated emotions that you may not be able to reveal to your loved ones. They can help you deal with the emotions associated with the experience by providing healthy coping strategies to empower you. Attend your therapy sessions faithfully to get the most out of them.
Prioritise sleep
Whether recovering from intense exercise, illness, or a bike accident, adequate rest is essential for your body to recuperate and regain strength. Aim to get plenty of sleep. Consider using old sheets initially to prevent discomfort and irritation from wounds. Recognize that sleeping may be challenging due to discomfort, so try going to bed earlier to compensate for any decrease in sleep quality.
Maintain gentle activity
In certain situations, you may resume riding shortly after an accident, but always prioritize your recovery. While some movement might provide relief, it’s important to assess whether immediate performance is necessary. If not, allowing your body a day or two to heal before exerting further stress is advisable.
Maintain gentle activity
In certain situations, you may resume riding shortly after an accident, but always prioritize your recovery. While some movement might provide relief, it’s important to assess whether immediate performance is necessary. If not, allowing your body a day or two to heal before exerting further stress is advisable.
Need help covering accident treatment costs?
Resources to help bike accident victims
1. Save LIFE Foundation
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They work extensively on road safety and provide assistance to accident victims. Their initiatives include emergency response services, legal aid, and rehabilitation support.
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Contact: +91 1141091911, +91 1141091910
Website: https://savelifefoundation.org/
2. Vishwas
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This is an NGO based in Delhi that provides support to victims of violence, including road accidents. They offer counseling, legal aid, and rehabilitation services.
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3. 108 Emergency Response Service
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108 is a free telephone number for emergency services in India providing integrated medical, police and fire emergency services.
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Contact: 108
4. National Legal Services Authority (NALSA)
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National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) provides free legal aid and assistance to the needy, including accident victims. They have legal aid clinics and panels of lawyers across the country.
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Learn more about the mental health effects after a traumatic accident from this detailed resource article by Farah & Farah.
If you or someone you care about is navigating the tough journey of recovery after a bike accident and is in need of financial assistance, Milaap can be a crucial support system. By tapping into Milaap’s community-focused fundraising, you can gather support from friends, family, and even kind-hearted strangers, ensuring that financial worries don’t hinder essential treatment and recovery. In challenging times, Milaap is there to lend a helping hand, steering you toward a brighter, hopeful future. Start your fundraiser today!
In times of need, support means everything, and with Milaap, you need not look any further. Milaap enables you to set up a fundraiser for any medical emergency within minutes, and you can easily raise funds for treatment expenses.
Do you know someone who could benefit from fundraising? Simply refer them to us and we’ll be happy to lend a hand.
Visit www.milaap.org or call us on +91 9916174848 to get started now.
For more information, write to us at cx@milaap.org.
