After you experience a crime you may find:
1. You feel angry, upset or experience other strong emotions
Some people are surprised at just how emotional they feel after a crime. These strong emotions can make you feel even more unsettled and confused.
A lot of people feel angry, upset or afraid after experiencing crime, but people will react in different ways.
2. Things suddenly fall apart for you
Sometimes people feel quite normal for a while and then things may suddenly start to fall apart.
3. You show physical symptoms
Others might have physical symptoms, such as lack of sleep or feeling ill.
4. You blame yourself thinking you should have done things differently
Many victims blame themselves or feel too embarrassed to come forward and get help – it’s important to remember it’s not your fault.
5. You develop long-term problems such as depression or anxiety-related illness
While the short-term effects of crime can be severe, most people don’t suffer any long-term harm. Occasionally, people do develop long-term problems, such as depression or anxiety-related illnesses, and a few people have a severe, long-lasting reaction after a crime, known as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However you’ve been affected, we can give you information and support to help you move forward. Find out more about how crime can impact your health.
