How to help a person who cannot overcome a horrible situation after an accident?

Question

Hi doctor,

My friend met with a severe accident three months back. She somehow escaped with a very minor injury. Physically she is very stable, but she cannot overcome or forget the horrible situation. She is scared of everything; on the other hand, she gets angry over small things. She remains isolated and keeps thinking about something. She is not ready to talk with anyone. She is just 24 years old, and I am worried about her as she stays away from her parents. How can I help her? What is she suffering from?

Thanks.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

She may have PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder). She needs to follow the below guideline to deal with her problem. It will help her.

She should do exercise daily for 30 to 45 minutes like at least going for a walk.
She should do meditation for 20 minutes daily, just sit in one place in a comfortable position and try to concentrate on her normal breathing, do not stop or force herself to stop her thoughts. It will relax her.
She should eat healthy home-cooked food, and avoid junk food.
She must drink enough water.
She should spend quality time with friends and family daily.
She should spend time on creative hobbies like reading good books, writing journals, painting, drawing, and learning new skills or language or musical instruments.
She should take enough seven to eight hours of sleep daily.
She must avoid tobacco or alcohol or any substance abuse.

If your friend still has symptoms that persist after following the advise for four to six weeks, then you need to take her to the nearest psychiatrist for further evaluation and treatment.

I hope that you get your answer.

Thank you.