You may be suffering from a condition called post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This is a mental illness that can occur after any major trauma. The person may have seen or experienced a death, violent act, or intense event causing great fear or helplessness.

PTSD was first seen in military soldiers after combat. According to a study from the Denver Health Medical Center, outside the military, PTSD is most common after a motor vehicle accident. Other causes include falls, gunshot wounds, and motorcycle or bicycle accidents.

A qualified doctor must diagnose this problem. It's viewed like any other medical problem. Medications and counseling are the two most common and successful ways to treat PTSD.