Emotional distress would be classified as a “noneconomic” damage. This type of damage is especially common in car accidents, dog bites, and other cases involving a traumatic experience. There are several types of emotional distress, including:Depression, Fear, Anxiety, Insomnia. When a victim of a personal injury experiences emotional distress, their recovery period is often extended. This is due to how mental anguish can result in physical suffering as well.