WHAT YOU MAY EXPERIENCE

Shock and Disbelief
You may feel shock and disbelief that something like this has actually happened to you; that your home has been broken into; and that your belongings have been gone through and stolen.

Sense of Violation
Part of the shock of a B & E is the sense of violation you may feel. This sense of violation and loss is both financial and emotional. Your privacy and sense of personal security and trust have been taken away from you, as well as your possessions.

Anger and Frustration
Anger at the intruders is a very common feeling. You may feel frustration because you are not able to express this anger directly at those who committed the crime. You may also feel frustrated and angry at the police and the court system, especially if police have not been able to return your property or find the people who did this to you.

Fear
After a B & E, you may fear that your home is not safe place anymore. You may feel uncomfortable being alone at home or worry when you're not there. Many people fear that their home will be broken into again. This may happen. Asking your local Police Department about crime preventions can help to lessen the chances of another B & E happening. Some people fear that they are being singled out, but most of the time the thieves want your possessions and do not break into your home because of who and what you are.

Suspicion
Many victims of B & E find themselves full of suspicion about strangers in their neighbourhoods. Police departments encourage citizens to phone the police about suspicous persons or activities.

Stress
After a B & E you may experience a lot of stress, and you may develop physical symptons, such as sleeping or eating difficulties. Anxiety and fear can add to the stress. It can also be stressful dealing with the frustrations and confusions of the police and court system. If you have children, dealing with their feelings can also be stressful.

Guilt
Victims often feel guilt as if there might have been something they could have done to help prevent the B & E. Of course, you are in no way to blame - when someone else breaks the law it is not the victim's fault.

Dealing with Children's Feelings
Remember that children will experience the same feelings, but they may be more intense, and children may have a hard time expressing their feelings in words. Their fear, anxiety, or anger may be expressed in changes in behaviour. They may have nightmares, or trouble eating or sleeping. They may go back to earlier childhood behaviours, such as bed wetting. Some children might become more aggressive and some might become quiet and withdrawn.
All of these responses are normal reactions to stress. Do not hesitate to see your doctor for help in dealing wtih these feelings, especially if they go on for a long time.

WHAT YOU CAN DO
You have been through an experience that is frightening and disruptive. Remember that what you are feeling is perfectly normal and that these feelings will pass in time. Meanwhile, there are some things you can do to make this time easier and to make things better for yourself in the future.

LOOK AFTER YOURSELF

• Dealing with a B & E can be very stressful, so be sure to take care of yourself both physically and emotionally.
• If you're frightened, get someone to stay at your home with you or stay at a friend's or with a member of your family.
• Talking about the experience is a very good way to relieve your feelings. Family and friends can be a great support.
• Children will often need special reassurance at this time. They may be frightened and need to know that their home can once again be a safe place.
• Encourage your children to talk about their feelings.

For you or your family, signs of stress, such as difficulty sleeping, depression or anxiety will fade with time. In the meantime you may want to see your family physician for advice or referral.

Remember that help is available.
Do not hesitate to ask for it.

DEALING WITH THE JUSTICE SYSTEM
After a B & E you will have to deal with the police and you may also have to go to court. The police will ask questions as part of their investigtion. If they find the person who they think is responsible for the crime, you may have to go to court as a witness. This can be a confusing and frightening experience. There are services to help you, with trained people available to provide you with information, practical help, and emotional support. You may be able to get your property returned or get some form of restitution from the offender.

MAKING YOUR HOME MORE SECURE
After a B & E, you may want to know how to prevent this from happening again. Making your home more secure can also help you deal with your feelings of anger, frustration and fear. Consider becoming involved in your local Neighbourhood Watch Program - an excellent way to help safeguard your home. Adding extra outdoor lighting, getting dead bolt locks on doors, and seeing that sliding doors and windows cannot be forced or lifted out of their frames are all ways that you can make your home more secure.