Being a victim of crime can be really upsetting, and the often the damage can be emotional or psychological, as much as physical. Crime where there is no physical contact – such as online bullying, verbal abuse, theft or fraud – can still have a negative impact on your emotional well-being. And while the physical effects of crime can be easy to see, the emotional effects can be much harder to spot, and even more difficult to understand.
People feel the impact of crime differently. You may have an immediate response to what has happened – such as being frightened, angry, or losing your confidence – or it may take days, weeks or even months before you realise just how much you have been affected.
Whatever you are feeling, it’s fine – it’s not your fault, you haven’t done anything wrong, and there are people who can help you to cope with the way you are feeling. It will get better, but the first step to talk to someone you can trust – maybe a parent, a teacher, your supporter, a youth worker, a counsellor or someone else you know well – about what has happened, and the effect it has had on you. They may be able to give you the support and advice you need; if not, they should be able to find someone who understands what you are going through, and who can help you to cope with the crime.
If you’re not comfortable talking to a parent, teacher or someone you already know, a good place to start is the Young Minds website. They can give you advice on a whole range of issues, from understanding the way you feel to what you can do to look after yourself, as well as explaining ‘who’s who’ – and what they do – in Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS).