Crime causes painful psychological injuries. The victims are in shock, they are greatly fearful and their safety is grossly violated. This trauma destroys their basic feelings of security and faith in the world. Sense of impotence and total vulnerability are typical first responses. At the beginning, there should be support.
The sufferers are often exposed to incapacitating disorders such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) which is a symptom of debilitating flashback, nightmares and hypervigilance. Profound depression, debilitating anxiety and world-wide guilt or shame are also common outcomes. Reluctance to relate with others and extreme trust problems are big problems causing relationships and functional difficulties. Such physical symptoms as insomnia tend to occur.
Recovery is not a passive process but it is a demanding process involving time. The most important first step to take is threefold recognition of the effect of the trauma. The top priority should be psychotherapy with the help of a specialist. Trauma therapists also give practical coping skills. The affiliation with support groups and the dilution of isolation validates them.
The therapeutic procedures that are evidence-based are essential in healing. Trauma is efficiently handled and dealt with by treatments. Severe depression or anxiety can be relieved by medication conducted under the direction of a psychiatrist. This allows better participation in treatment and the obligatory practices in the day to day world. The path of recovery is organized under professional guidance.
The restoration of routines creates stability and control needed. Coping with continued stress can be learned by learning how to cope healthily. Defining strict limits preserves emotional health. More importantly, the victims should regain a feeling of personal control and security of their surroundings. This forms the basis of reconstruction of a functional life.
Conclusion :
Major psychological damage is done by crime in the form of PTSD, depression, and broken trust. The process of recovery requires an active practice: a professional medical treatment, substantial social support, and self-care. By working, healing is possible. The main priority of victims is to restore mental health, and the existing resources should be used to restore resilience and feel safe again. Leaving the role of a victim entails vigorous act on the process of recovery.
