When we hear the term “personal injuries,” we often picture physical harm. We may think of broken bones or traumatic brain injuries. However, personal injuries encompass a broader spectrum of harm. It may also extend to damage inflicted on a person’s emotions, reputation or overall well-being.
Emotional turmoil: The unseen personal injury
Emotional harm can manifest as physical symptoms in a multitude of circumstances, and each of these can be uniquely challenging. It may come in the form of harassment, whether it is in the workplace or online. It may be due to defamation that caused irrevocable damage to someone’s reputation. Or it may happen after a person experienced relentless online attacks.
Here are some examples:
- Prolonged emotional distress like constant worry or anxiety can lead to physical health problems such as high blood pressure or a weakened immune system.
- Extreme stress can manifest physically. It may lead to headaches, stomachaches or muscle tension.
- If a person experiences emotional trauma, it is possible that they may end up engaging in self-destructive behavior. They may harm themselves or they may fall victim to substance abuse.
- Emotional distress may cause chronic sleep deprivation. This, in turn, can result in physical fatigue, impaired thinking and a higher risk of accidents.
These emotional wounds can be just as debilitating as physical injuries. These may also require professional support to heal.
Maximizing support by addressing emotional harm
While pinpointing the exact value of emotional suffering may seem tricky, it can be a significant change for your case, especially when it comes to compensation.
For one, jurors often relate to people who have suffered emotional distress, especially when it profoundly affects their quality of life. Although not a guarantee, this empathy may sometimes lead to higher compensation awards.
Furthermore, during negotiations, emotional harm can be a powerful tool. It can encourage defendants and insurers to offer more generous settlements, especially if they want to avoid the uncertainties and costs linked to a trial.
You deserve all the support that you can get
Personal injuries extend beyond physical harm and can deeply affect your emotional well-being and reputation. By recognizing these less apparent forms of injury, you may be able to get more comprehensive support and justice for your sufferings.