Whether you are a victim or a witness to a crime, you are likely to be shocked to find yourself in this situation. Crime regularly affects more than just the direct victim: witnesses to a crime, family members and friends are also likely to suffer a sense of loss and psychological harm.
Regardless of whether or not you were directly involved in the incident, your response will be personal and unique to you. If you find yourself in this situation, it is very important that you talk to someone about the incident and how it has affected you.
Crime can affect people in several ways. Specific emotions like anger and fear are naturally the most common, yet some people do not respond in this way. In saying this, any reaction you may have is not an unusual response.
You may or may not experience a few or all of the following: fear, shock, anger, grief, violation, disbelief, emotional distress, confusion, self-blame, or guilt. People who have been subject to crime may experience a range of emotions and feelings. This is a natural response to the shock of a criminal incident.
The severity of the crime is not necessarily an indication of how people react. Where some people may deal particularly well with the more terrifying crimes, other people can be highly distressed by more minor crimes. Generally, crime victims may feel vulnerable, powerless, isolated and detached.
The response to a shocking and frightening crime is often a feeling of numbness and disconnection. The depth of fear experienced can cause immense mental, physical and emotional distress. At times the ordeal may lead to change in the lifestyle and habits of the person affected which causes them to feel ‘different’ and alone.
This feeling of isolation can be heightened for people who come from different ethnic backgrounds, or who may have language or literacy difficulties. Such people may not know about organisations and services that are there to offer support. And they may not be familiar with how the criminal justice system works in Ireland, which can add to their sense of isolation and powerlessness.
At Crime Victims Helpline we understand the effects of crime, and the impact it can have on people’s lives. We listen to our callers with empathy and in a non-judgemental way. We give them time and space to talk about what has happened to them, the impact of the crime on them and on their families, how they are coping, what they can do to help themselves, what step they can take as a result of calling us, and any issues that callers want to talk about.
We will inform them of appropriate services, and give them the contact details of organisations that may be able to help. We provide information on the Garda investigation process and other aspects of the criminal justice system. We may also liaise with other organisations on behalf of callers, if requested.
Our freephone service at 116 006 is provided in English but we have volunteers who speak other languages who can arrange to speak with a caller. We also have a text service and an e-mail service if it is easier for you to contact us in that way.
Being a victim of crime can be a harrowing experience but talking to somebody about your experience is a first and crucial step to recovery.
- Contact the Crime Victims Helpline at freephone 116 006. Alternatively you can text 085 133 7711, e-mail info@crimevictimshelpline.ie or visit our website at www.crimevictimshelpline.ie.
