Coping Strategies

Information

If you have been the victim of a crime it is likely that you are experiencing a range of reactions and feelings. Although this may be worrying for you, they are normal reactions to such a traumatic event (Please click here for further information about how to cope with witnessing a traumatic event). Your reactions may be physical (e.g. headaches/nausea), emotional (e.g. depression/anger) or social (e.g. unable to work/withdrawn). Common reaction to witnessing a traumatic event include:

  • Fear
  • Prolonged crying and sadness
  • Sleep disturbance
  • Anxiety
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Disorientation and confusion
  • Nightmares
  • Suicide of a loved one
  • Uneasiness

It is important to understand that your reactions are normal after a stressful event, and they will decrease over time.

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