Nobody wants to be a victim of a crime; however, unfortunately many are victimized.  The effects of this victimization can range from physical, emotional or psychological.  Below is a list of common side effects that individuals who have been victim to a crime may experience:

-Feelings of being in shock or experiencing emotional numbness

-Unexpected spells of crying

-Anger

-Changes in sleep patterns (either sleeping too much or not enough).

-Changes in eating patterns (over or under eating)

-Eating disorders

-Sensations of reliving the victimization

-Feeling as though you see the perpetrator in strangers

-Suspiciousness or paranoia

-Feelings of not being safe

-panic attacks

-feelings of depression

-feeling of anxiety or always being on edge

-easy startle response

-pleasure seeking activities

This list is in no way comprehensive.  Each victim of a crime will have their own unique reaction and responses to their trauma.

Seeking help for your victimization is the first step in healing.  There are many therapists, psychologists, social workers, who are trained in assisting victims recover from their trauma and lead a healthy lifestyle.

After seeking help, your counselor will most likely conduct a victim assessment where they seek to understand the nature of the trauma and its specific effect on you.  Victim treatment will then be tailored to address your specific needs.