When you are a victim of crime you can be affected in many different ways. Emotions such as anger or fear, are common.
Sometimes you can feel quite normal for a while, and then things may start to fall apart. Others may have physical symptoms, such as lack of sleep or feeling ill. Everyone is individual in how they respond - the crucial thing is, to be aware that you've had a traumatic experience and any changes to how you feel could be related to this.
Many people are surprised at just how emotional they feel after a crime. These strong emotions can, in turn, make you feel even more unsettled and confused. People around you such as friends, partners and children, are also likely to be affected. They may feel similar emotions to yours, as well as concern for you. But, at the same time, many people find that others around them expect them to just 'get over it.' This is not always helpful if what you really want to do, is talk about how you feel.
How you react to a crime will also depend on:
- the type of crime
- whether you know the person who committed the crime
- the support you get (or don't get), from your family, friends, the police, and other people you come into contact with
- things that have happened to you in the past, (if you've had to deal with difficult events before you may have found ways of coping).
The effects of crime can also last for a long time and the 'seriousness' of the crime is often not a factor in how you respond. Some people cope extremely well with the most horrific crimes, while others can be very distressed by a minor incident.
When you've been the victim of a crime or trauma, (this includes being a witness or family member of a victim), events like this may affect you in different ways. When there is adequate support, after the event(s), the risk of experiencing things such as post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and repeat victimisation are lessened. People who receive support and information are more likely to remain connected in a positive way with their whānau, family and local community and are better placed to rebuild their lives and recover from what has happened.
Support is available to the victims and their families to gain strength and rebuild their lives, after tragic events have taken place.
For more information please see the resources attached or visit Victim Support