How Do You Know? My Son Survived A Crash With Drunk Driver

[twithers]

My four year old and my husband both survived a car wreck June7,2010 after being hit by a drunk driving driveing over 120mph. My sons arm was stuck between the road and car and dragged 100ft after it flipped and was hospitalized for a week. Had to have two skin grafts and has a broken arm.

So, the first week he was home he whined and cried over every little thing like he had never done before. Jumping up and down and saying constantly whatever the demand may have been. Like almost in a panicy way. I called dr to get referral but never they never called back. No, i actually went in. Dr was away and he was never saw for my concerns. Nurse told me, well he dont really need to be seen for this and i could talk to dr on phone. Thats right, he never called. So anyway, my sons symptons kinda went away. That whineyness did... But now, it is all very hostile. In a mean way. Like it has come back in full force. He hits everybody now, yells at us, screams to get his way. Just a totally different little boy than before the wreck. Is this the post tramadic disorder. Should I go find a new dr? I just want yalls opinion. Im very lost and new to all this and Im so glad i found this page to talk to you guys and help me help him..

 

[catjudo]

Welcome to the forum. It's too soon to know whether your son has PTSD. However, if it were my child (and I have a 5½-year-old daughter), I would find a therapist in your area who works with children. Your son has been through a lot and if you feel his behavior has changed dramatically and you're unsure of how to help him, a child therapist would be a good place to start.

 

[kers]

I would also ask for a consult with a neurologist. Sudden, extreme behavior changes may indicate trauma to the head and brain.

 

[gdf]

Sorry to hear of your family's misfortune. To be injured so young is very traumatizing and this would be a good time to get your son some help to try and avoid the development of PTSD. It sounds like you are getting some good feedback already. I will toss out a couple more thoughts. Hopefully this is not too overwhelming.

Another idea beyond the neurologist idea might be to consult with a neuropsychologist especially if there was any type of head trauma--it sounds like there wasn't. This is not an MD or a DO but a doctoral level psychologist specially trained to diagnose psychological and neurological problems resulting from issues like head trauma. I don't work with children as young as your son but here are a few suggestions that might help. Locate your nearest local childrens hospital (a Shriners' Hospital would be a good possibility) and ask for a pediatric neurologist. They should be able to consult with you and refer to the neuropsychologist also. General medical (family) doctors are not always familiar with neuropsychologists and mistake them for neurologists frequently. The neuropsychologist can document your son's psychological behavior at this time right after the accident via an assessment using pencil and paper type testing whereas medical tests usually just show physical damage--MRIs and CAT scans do not show or explain nuances and changes in behavior as can neuropsycholgical test batteries. If you do this you should hear the neurosychologist talk about tests such as the Nebraska Luria and the Halstead Reitan or their components. I believe there are childrens versions but don't quote me on that. As your son heals and grows and behavior changes or stabilizes the original test will act as a benchmark to show improvement, changes or delays. It can be referenced for use in school in case accommodations are needed later on. Because neuropsychologists are clinical psychologists they can also comment on the psychological effects the accident might have on brain development.

Another idea would be to locate your local bureau of vocational rehabilitation (Texas is still number one in the nation for their vocational rehabilitation programs I believe) and ask them which neuropsychologists they use to assess their consumers. Approach it from an "information and referral" standpoint otherwise they may say that your son is too young to be referred for voc rehab services...just tell them you want some names of people as a resource. Vocational rehabilitation counselors usually know who these professionals are in the area. Since psychologists tend to associate and network with other psychologists and professionals even if you strike out on the first one they may know of the next person who might have the skills you need.

The National Institute of Meantal Health (just Google NIMH) has some good information on PTSD/childrens' mental health topics.

Right now this probably all seems overwhelming. Hopefully your family can relax and heal from all this speedily. I hope you find the assistance you need. God speed.

Gina

 

[Tessa]

I am sorry to hear what happened to you and your family. I would guess that your son is reacting to the trauma and is reacting with panic and anger. PLease persue some psychological help to prevent a long term condition. I was traumatised by a road trauma (aunt was killed) at age 4 and have struggled with it for the rest of my life.

Take care
Tessa