Break-in, breakdown
Question
My flat was broken into a couple of months ago, it's happened before and I've not felt the same since. I've been having problems sleeping and I spend most of the night walking from window to window making sure they're not coming back.
I'm sick with worry and I feel guilty because people said I should have protected my girlfriend by going after the guys who broke in. And she's really pissed off because she's basically spending every night alone while I can't sleep.
I've been off work for a while because of it and I'm supposed to be going back soon but I don't think I can face it. I'm just so tired. I've thought about taking sleeping pills but that won't stop me worrying. What should I do? I'm desperate.
Answer
Being a victim of any crime can be very hard to deal with and it's completely understandable you've been feeling anxious and found it hard to sleep since the break-in. The effects of a crime may last for some time, but it is unlikely they will remain with you in the long-term.
Being burgled and the thought of someone having been in your home can be very distressing. It sounds as though you are worried about it happening again and this is making you anxious. Talking about these feelings may help you feel better, if you feel comfortable doing so.
If you can talk to your partner about your worries, this may help her understand why you're not sleeping. Not being able to sleep can be frustrating and draining; and certainly won't be helping you feel any better, but there are ways to improve your sleep. It might also be useful for you to talk to your doctor (GP) about sleeping pills before you decide whether to take them or not. It is important to remember that any drug taken to improve sleep should only be used as a short-term solution and it may prove more effective to explore the underlying causes.
If you don't feel able to talk to friends or family about what's happening to you and you'd rather talk to someone you don't know you can call Victim Support for confidential, emotional and practical help. They have branches around the country or you can call them on 0845 30 30 900. As well as giving you a chance to talk about how you are feeling, they can also give you practical advice on how to keep your home secure.
If you feel you can, it might help to talk to your doctor about what's happening. Sometimes people develop anxiety, depression, or occasionally post-traumatic stress disorder after a distressing event, such as being the victim of a crime, and if you're worried about any of these things, your GP will be able to give you more information about them.
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Question answered by SANE
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