Emotional Distress and Mental Health Damages in New Hampshire

Recognizing the Mental Toll

Serious accidents don't just injure the body. Victims frequently experience anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, sleep disruption, and fear that interferes with daily life — for instance, fear of driving after a crash. New Hampshire law recognizes these harms as part of a victim's compensable losses.

Emotional Distress as Part of Your Claim

Emotional distress is generally recoverable as part of the pain and suffering associated with a physical injury. In some circumstances, claims for emotional harm can arise even without direct physical injury, though those are more limited and fact-specific.

Documenting Psychological Harm

As with physical pain, documentation matters. Treatment from mental health professionals, a symptom journal, and testimony from family about changes in the victim's behavior and mood help establish the extent of emotional harm. Insurers discount what isn't documented.

Don't Overlook This Loss

Victims often focus on physical injuries and overlook the psychological impact, leaving real damages uncompensated. An attorney can ensure emotional harm is properly recognized and valued as part of the full claim.