Normal Reactions to Expect After a Crime

It is not unusual for people who are impacted by serious crimes to experience some significant changes to the way they think, feel and behave. Below are some reactions common to people who experience traumatic stress as a result of a crime. They may vary in intensity and duration and may occur whether or not you are injured. Although these thoughts, feelings and actions can be very upsetting, it is important to remember that they are normal reactions to abnormal situations.

Thoughts

  • Recurring dreams or nightmares.
  • Trouble concentrating or remembering.
  • Cannot get the event off your mind.

Feelings

  • Feeling emotionally numb or withdrawn.
  • Lack of enjoyment in everyday activities.
  • Feeling depressed.
  • Feeling anxious.
  • Mistrust of others.
  • Anger, including thoughts of revenge.
  • Feelings of helplessness.

Behaviors

  • Keeping overly busy to avoid thinking about the event.
  • Isolating yourself from other people and/or former activities.
  • Changes in the way you sleep and eat.