#WISDOM WEDNESDAY: Dealing with trauma after a crime-related incident
How to survive trauma
Experiencing a crime-related incident can leave one frightened and result in long-term, possibly life-long, trauma.
Aphile Sidima, a social worker for the Randfontein Victims Empowerment Centre, said victims should be treated within 72 hours following such incidents.
Aphile said if this is not done, it may leave the victim with long-term or life-long side-effects such as nightmares and hallucinations.
“There are also medications that are given to victims to calm their minds,” he said. Rape is one of the most severe situations, often leaving victims traumatised for life.
“It is the worst thing that can happen to anyone, and most people who have been raped have difficulties moving on with their lives. The often don’t marry, they lose trust and fail to keep their relationships going. The hardest thing for them is disclose what happened to their loved ones.”
He said that, just like experiencing crime, those who have been victims of rape may become paranoid. “They tend to constantly check whether their doors and windows are locked, and are often easily startled by the sound of footsteps,” he added.
Aphile said victims can keep their minds off things by keeping good company and engaging in exercises that can make them feel better.
He said in some cases people do not fully recover, but when they speak about their traumatic experiences, they feel a slight relief. Dr Leanne Mandim, head of Health and Wellness Solutions for Life, said you can take steps to recover from the ordeal.
“Trauma can leave you struggling with upsetting emotions, flashbacks and anxiety that won’t go away. It can also you leave numb, disconnected, and unable to trust other people.”
She highlighted the following tips that could help a person’s recovery:
Get advice, aim for healthy living, do not withdraw from the world and breathe through moments of stress.
“Whether you have been involved in a traumatic incident or you are supporting someone who is traumatised, it is important not to rush the process. Suppressed or unresolved trauma can have a long-lasting effect on your work life, family, life relationships and more,” Dr Mandim added.
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