At least 25% of individuals exposed to a traumatic event or series of events will develop at least one or more psychological illnesses.

Typical psychological illnesses arising out of exposure to trauma include depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), grief and adjustment reactions and drug and/or alcohol dependency.

The most common categories of traumatic events include road, air and rail accidents, accidents at work, abuse (physical, sexual and/or emotional) combat and natural or other disasters such as the Hillsborough disaster and terrorist attacks.

Exposure to trauma can result in an individual suffering from one or more psychiatric disorders. A common misconception is that PTSD is the only psychological illness arising out of exposure to trauma. It is not.

Unlike a physical injury an individual may not immediately either experience or recognise the signs and symptoms of a psychological injury. In some cases where an individual has been experiencing signs of psychological distress, that individual may not associate their symptoms with trauma for weeks, months and commonly years. Such signs and symptoms may include nightmares, flashbacks, irritability, anger, concentration difficulties, low mood, fatigue and sleep disturbance.

Individuals suffering from a psychological injury or injuries caused by trauma exposure require urgent medical help. Such help may not always be available either at all, or in time, through the NHS.

If you believe you have a claim involving psychological illness, please contact Mark McGhee and his team on 0161 837 6815.