Like other public health issues, road trauma impacts the lives of millions of people around the world. In Western Australia, an average of 168 people are killed on our roads each year – more than 1500 people are seriously injured (Road Safety Commission WA, Driving Change – Road Safety Strategy for Western Australia 2020 – 2030, November 2020, p13). The impact of road trauma on family, friends,
witnesses, others involved in the crash, and emergency service personnel who respond to crashes is significant.
This is where post-crash care and road trauma support can help. Information, support, and counselling, including the free services provided by Road Trauma Support WA, can help anyone affected by road trauma improve their wellbeing, recover their mental health and move forward with their life.
Everyone has different ways of dealing with the impact of a road crash. Some may find it helpful to talk to someone, particularly if they’re struggling with everyday activities, special events or anniversaries. Easily accessible information including fact sheets, brochures and blogs are available for people who want to read more about supporting themselves or others through road trauma, in their own
time.
In addition to formal post-crash care, there are six practical, supportive steps which can help, particularly in the lead up to special events and the festive season, for anyone who has been affected by road trauma.
Remember is an important step when supporting loved ones (or yourself) after a road crash. Remember the happy moments, talk about loved ones, and remember it’s okay to feel sadness during this time.
Acknowledge your feelings and emotions when you’re grieving after road trauma. Recognise it’s okay to feel a range of emotions, be patient with yourself as feelings come and go.
Plan for events or occasions that could be difficult for you or your loved ones and try not to overschedule yourself. What support do you need to help you cope?
Act Take action to find the balance between celebrating and the need for quiet time and reflection. Keeping a routine can help to focus on what is in your control and maintain a good balance. If you need counselling or support, contact Road Trauma Support WA (1300 004 814), your GP, or Lifeline (13 11 14).
Support yourself and others through grief by sharing feelings, memories, rituals, and traditions. Seek support or offer support to others by talking, messaging, or getting together. For crisis support, Lifeline WA (13 11 14), Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800), Suicide Call Back Service (1300 659 467) and 13YARN (13 92 76), are available 24-hours a day.
Take time for yourself during the holiday season, especially if you’re grieving a loved one. Getting enough rest and taking time for your own wellbeing can support you to cope during this time.
Access Road Trauma Support WA’s services.
Let us help you understand your road trauma and move forward. Road trauma can affect anyone, and it affects all of us differently. So if you, or someone you know, are experiencing road trauma – whether you were involved in a crash, witnessed one or you’re a bereaved friend or family member – you don’t have to deal with it alone. Call our friendly team on 1300 004 814 (free call), email us at [email protected] or visit www.rtswa.org.au