- COPING WITH THE
AFTERMATH OF A CRIME

Below are some reactions common to people who have experienced traumatic stress as a result of a crime. You may have these reactions if you have been a victim of, or witness to a crime, or if a crime was committed against someone close to you. These reactions may vary in intensity and duration, and may occur whether or not you are physically injured. Although these thoughts, feelings and actions can be very upsetting, it is important to remember that they are normal reactions to an abnormal situation.

Thoughts
· Repeated thoughts or memories of the event, which are hard to stop
· Recurring dreams or nightmares
· Being caught off guard by a person, place, or event which reminds you of the original event
· Reconstructing the event in your mind in an effort to regain a sense of control
· Trouble concentrating or remembering things
· Questioning your "world view" or spiritual beliefs

Feelings
· Pervasive fear
· Feeling emotionally numb or withdrawn
· Lack of enjoyment in everyday activities
· Feeling depressed
· Lack of trust in others
· Anger, including a desire for revenge or vengeance

Behaviours
· Being very alert or startling easily
· Being overprotective of you or your family's safety
· Avoiding activities, which are reminders of what happened
· Avoidance of real or symbolic violence (TV, movies)
· Increase in communication problems with family members
· Keeping busy to avoid thinking about the event