Compensation & Counseling Services
Domestically abusive environments damage children in a variety of ways. Always:
1. Tell them it is not their fault.
2. Encourage them to talk about the domestic violence.
3. Work out a safety and exit plan with them.
4. Let then know that they are not alone.
Stalking is a common and disabling crime that often persists for a long time causing the victim and their family extreme distress. In the past have you:
1. Been followed?
2. Had unsolicited correspondences, such as mobile, text or email?
3. Had someone stand outside yor home or workplace?
4. Left unwanted items for you to discover?
5. Vandilized your property?
6. Sent others to contact you on their behalf?
If the above have been done to you on a regular basis there are things that you may need to do, including obtaining an Intervention Order. For further information contact Victims of Crime Counselling Services.
Domestic abuse is a significant problem for many people and if not addressed it eventually dominates relationships to the detriment of all concerned. Please answer the following questions honestly:
1. Are you in a relationship with a person who regularly phsically, emotionally or verbally abuses you?
2. Do you feel controlled or isolated from others by your partner?
3. Are you afraid of your partner?
4. Do you feels unsafe in your own home?
5. Has your partner forced you to have unwanted sex?
6. Have you experienced domestic violence as a child or in a previous relationship?
7. Have you ever called the police because you feared for your or your families safety?
If you have answered yes to any of the above questions you may require professional assistance. Call Victims of Crime Counselling Services for assistance.
Going to court may be a very stressful time for victims. Below are a few suggestions that may help:
1. Get used to the court environment by sitting in on other cases.
2. Prepare Victim Impact Statements thoroughly.
3. Be patient as matters do not always preceed promptly.
4. Make contact with the Police Prosecutor well before the trial.
5. Evidence must be consistent and unbiased.
6. Respond to questions in a concise manner.
7. If you are unsure of the question ask for clarification.
8. Respond to one question at a time.
9. Do not allow yourself to feel intimidated or harrassed.
If you would like to speak with someone before attending a court matter call Victims of Crime Couselling and compensation services on freecall 1800 00 00 55 or on 93808129.
Providing psychological first aid post trauma:
1. Help victims meet their basic needs.
2. Listen to others who wish to share their story.
3. Be compassionate.
4. Provide accurate information about the situation.
5. Help victims stay connected with family and friends.
6. Encourage victims to take control and help thenselves.
7. Help address concerns and worries.
8. Encourage hope.
At some time in your life you are likely to experience or witness a traumatic event. Those events that involve intense fear, helplessness or horror are more likely to result in a disabling response. Examples of traumatic events are criminal assault, sexual abuse, domestic violence and stalking.
Common emotional responses include fear, guilt and anger. Common cognitive responses include impaired concentration, self-blame and intrusive thoughts. Common physical responses include sleeping difficulties, tiredness and impaired appetite. Common behaviour responses include social withdrawal and loss of interest in usual activities.
While most trauma victims recover quickly a small number do not. Some people go on to develop conditions such as Acute Stress Disorder, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Major Depressive Disorders.
Symptoms that constitute these disorders include intrusive thoughts, avoidance behaviour, restricted emotions and increased arousal.
Some of the factors that may contribute to severe responses to trauma include the severity, duration, proximity and nature of the trauma.
Following a trauma it is important to tell your story and stay connected to close others. It is also very imoortant to continue with your normal life routine as best as possible as well as to confront your fears.
If you are continuing to have significant symptoms post trauma you will most likely require some professional help. If so please call Victims of Crime Counselling and Compensation Services on freecall 1800 00 00 55 or 93808129.