Some drunk drivers in Washington feel a false sense of confidence they won’t hurt themselves or others. But drunk driving isn’t only dangerous in a physical sense. The adverse effects of drunk driving can also wreak havoc on their mental health.
Anxiety
It’s common for thoughts to race through someone’s head while driving. If someone knowingly drives under the influence, they’ll likely feel immense anxiety. This anxiety can come from worrying about getting pulled over for a DUI or endangering other drivers.
Guilt
Many people who drive under the influence of alcohol and other substances know they’re breaking the law, which can cause feelings of guilt. These same individuals might also feel guilty after lying to their family and friends about driving while impaired. This person might also feel guilty about what family and friends would think of them if they received a DUI charge.
PTSD
When people experience something that causes trauma, this situation can form a condition called post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). You might think that PTSD only affects people who serve or served in the military, but it can also affect people who drive under the influence. Symptoms of PTSD can include nightmares, vivid flashbacks or insomnia. If this condition persists, it could require therapy or medication to resolve. Plus, the lack of sleep caused by PTSD combined with being under the influence can drastically increase your risk of getting into a crash.
Frequent drunk driving can be a sign of alcohol use disorder. Medical and mental health experts can help you with this condition. A treatment plan can help you regain control over your drinking and stay safe while on the road.
