Symptoms of emotional distress are
common as a result of whiplash injuries.
Common symptoms of whiplash include
anxiety and phobia related to driving.
Another symptom is depression, and
this may be related to chronic pain.
In one study, 60 patients with chronic
pain involved with litigation, with non-specific
diagnoses including "psychogenic pain" or
"chronic pain," were carefully examined. Two
thirds of these patients were found to have real
pathology which had gone unrecognized, undiagnosed and
untreated by previous physicians.
Listening to patients and taking their
pain seriously is critical in developing good working
relationships.
Treatment
Emotional and social support does not
always need to be medically based. Psychologists, clergy,
or counselors can all be excellent sources of help.
Medical treatment generally includes
drug therapy for psychological symptoms. In some
instances, medications are appropriate. It is important
that patients not become dependent on the drugs used for
treatment of psychological symptoms.
It is always important for patients to
be fully aware of any possible side effects of drugs.