Road trauma can have a significant impact not only on the person directly involved but also on their family, friends, and support network. Depending on the nature and severity of the road trauma, individuals may experience physical injuries, emotional distress, or both. The aftermath can be overwhelming and may lead to changes within the family dynamic as everyone adjusts to new challenges.
It is important to remember that not all injuries are visible. Some people may appear to have physically recovered from a crash, while others may not have sustained any physical injuries at all. However, this does not mean they have not been affected psychologically.
Psychological injuries can develop following a traumatic event and may affect a person’s thoughts, emotions, behaviours, and day-to-day functioning. Common experiences may include:
- Low mood or persistent sadness
- Increased irritability or agitation
- Feeling constantly on edge or hypervigilant
- Being easily startled or jumpy
- Difficulty sleeping and/or experiencing nightmares
- Being more tearful
- Reliving aspects of the crash through flashbacks or intrusive memories
- Replaying the event repeatedly in their mind
- Negative self-talk or self-blame
- Changes in appetite or eating habits
- Avoiding reminders of the crash or conversations about what happened
- Feelings of guilt, shame, fear, or sadness
- Emotional numbness or feeling disconnected from others
What Not to Say
If someone you care about has recently been impacted by road trauma, it is important not to dismiss or minimise their experience. Everyone responds differently to traumatic events, and there is no “right” way to react.
Research suggests that invalidating or dismissive responses can increase a person’s distress and may contribute to ongoing trauma-related symptoms. Even comments that are intended to be reassuring can sometimes leave a person feeling misunderstood or unsupported.
While often well-intentioned, the following statements may not be helpful or supportive to your loved one:
- “You look like you’re doing well.”
- “It’s been a while since the crash. You should be over it by now.”
- “You weren’t even in the crash.”
- “I was involved in a crash, and it didn’t affect me.”
These comments can unintentionally minimise a person’s experience or create pressure for them to recover more quickly than they are able to.
How to Support a Loved One
Research has shown that social support can play an important role in recovery following a traumatic event. Feeling supported by family, friends, and workplaces is associated with improved emotional wellbeing and better long-term outcomes.
If you’re unsure how to help, consider some of the following supportive actions:
- Ask your loved one whether they need any practical, emotional, or psychological support.
- Validate their experience by saying something like: “I can see that you’ve been going through a lot lately.”
- Offer to make them a cup of tea or another comforting drink (avoid using alcohol).
- Spend time with them, whether that’s sitting outside together or going for a gentle walk, if appropriate.
- Cook or bring over one of their favourite meals.
- Offer to help with grocery shopping or other errands.
- Provide childcare support if needed.
- Assist with establishing or maintaining a daily routine.
- Let them know that you are available to listen if and when they want to talk about the crash.
It is important to allow your loved one to discuss the event at their own pace. Avoid pressuring them to talk about what happened before they are ready. Simply knowing that someone is there to listen can be incredibly meaningful.
Encouraging Professional Support
If you are concerned about a loved one’s wellbeing, it may be helpful to gently express your concerns and encourage them to seek additional support. Additional support may include speaking with their general practitioner (GP), psychologist, or another qualified health professional. You can also share information about support services, such as Road Trauma Support WA, and provide relevant resources or fact sheets that may assist them in understanding their experience and accessing appropriate care.
Recovery following road trauma looks different for everyone. While you may not be able to remove the challenges your loved one is facing, your understanding, patience, and support can make a meaningful difference. Sometimes, the most valuable thing you can offer is simply being present, listening without judgement, and reminding them that they do not have to go through their recovery alone.
