Physical and Mental Health

Physical health issues can be painful reminders for crime victims. Victims may be seriously or permanently injured following a crime, and these injuries may prevent them from going to work or performing other day-to-day activities.

Victims of may suffer from mental health issues resulting from their victimization. Specifically, victims of a violent crime, such as assault and robbery, have reported feelings of distress, problems with work or school, and problems with family members and friends that include more arguments and an inability to trust them.

It is also critical to be aware of the mental health of victim service providers and first responders. Research shows that vicarious trauma, when left unaddressed, can lead to staff burnout, turnover, stress, and a lesser quality of services for victims. OVC’s Vicarious Trauma Toolkit offers guidance to help organizations strengthen their ability to address work-related exposure to trauma.

The following resources provide information on physical and mental health.