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Victims of crimes may experience a great deal of anger,
survivor’s guilt, hatred, self-blame, guilt and confusion. Your sense of
trust and order may be shattered. You may experience a wide range of
feelings and behaviors and have little ability to control your emotions at
any given time.
These emotions are very personal and may continue for months or years.
Victims may experience nightmares, insomnia, periods of uncontrolled
sobbing, occasional hysterical laughter, nausea, headaches, fatigue or a
general feeling of going crazy. Family relationships may change as
individuals react differently to the trauma. Victimization may lead to
financial stress, family discord, divorce, alcoholism, and a variety of
other problems. Everyone has a different reaction and a different timetable
for healing. It is important to grieve and acknowledge the impact of your
experience.
Begin by treating yourself with kindness and recognizing that healing
happens slowly. Do not set unrealistic expectations and do not let others
set timetables or pressure you into getting on with your life. Do things
when you are ready, not because others are telling you to do them. It is all
right to be angry, to feel sad, or to cry. Take time to lament.
Healing can be facilitated by telling one’s story again and again. Build a
network of support for yourself and other family members to help you get
through these difficult times, and realize you are not alone. Many others
have experienced the same problems and can help you work through your
experience. You can benefit greatly from calling one of the victim
assistance organizations listed on our website at
www.corrections.state.id.us
click on Victim Services.
Victims and survivors of serious crimes can help themselves and others by
turning their victimization into a force for positive change. Many victims
volunteer their time to working in shelters, answering crisis hotlines,
talking to legislators, and speaking on victim impact panels. Your time and
commitment can help the community move toward greater justice and healing
for all victims of crime.
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Office Information |
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1918 Overland Avenue
P.O. Box 7
Burley, ID 83318 |
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Phone:
(208)878-0419
Fax (208)878-2924 |
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