Letter: Call for support and help if you’ve been victimized
According to the 2015 crime clock FBI report, a violent crime occurs every 25.3 seconds. Experiencing victimization through a violent crime such as rape, physical assault, child abuse, armed robbery, et cetera, can cause significant traumatic responses.
Victimization experiences are often filled with intense emotional stress and reactions. These unwanted events can cause victims feelings of disappointment, worthlessness, loneliness, hurt, shame, fear and guilt. Sometimes these feelings can become overwhelming and potentially lead to depression, self harm or suicidal ideas.
Some suicidal warning signs can include partaking in dangerous or self-harmful behavior such as increased use of drugs and alcohol or reckless driving; choosing to be alone, withdrawing, or isolating from others; and long-lasting sadness, moodiness, and unexpected rage.
If you or someone you know has experienced victimization, please call for support and help. You can call the Support Advocacy and Resource Center at 509-374-5391 or the Crime Victim Service Center at 509-374-0130 for support and victim services.
Rosanna Herrera
Kennewick
This story was originally published October 7, 2015 at 6:34 PM with the headline "Letter: Call for support and help if you’ve been victimized."