The majority of stalking victims do not seek mental health services, despite significant and serious mental health impact.
*- 80% of victims reported increased anxiety
*- 30% of victims developed PTSD
*- 25% of victims considered or attempted suicide
Yet, only 30% of female & 20% of male victims seek psychological counseling.
Sources: National Violence Against Women Survey, Tjaden & Thoennes (1998), Management of Victims of Stalking, Pathe, Mullen, & Purcell (2001) Reasons for not seeking counseling often mirror those for not reporting stalking: shame, embarassment, minimization, etc. Additionally, given the reality that 46 million people in this country do not have health insurance, psychological treatment is simply out of reach for many victims. This should not be a barrier to holding offenders accountable. If it is, offenders may end up targeting victims whom they learn do not have health insurance or cannot afford mental health counseling.
2 comments:
Living in fear takes it toll on a person; however, thanks to the hard work of dedicated individuals like Karen and the members of the New Jersey legislature stalking victims will have a fighting chance to overcome --and stalkers who are often domestic abusers will be held accountable for their actions.
There is also legislation in the works regarding the use of GPS technology with restraining orders. This is much needed legislation that is long over due!
One person can make a difference!
Victims of stalking and domestic abuse you are not alone! You can contact me directly by e-mail at Alexis@survivorsinaction.com.
I lived in fear for 18 years in my abusive marriage to a teacher of grade school children! After being married for 14 years I left and was stalked relentlessly for 4 years!!!! I know the fear of being stalked - first hand!!!
I created an organization called, "The Weaker Vessel, Inc." which is a National On-Line Database of Domestic Violence Abusers"... We are working hard to make sure that all 50 states' domestic violence records are in the database.
Now everyone can go on-line to see if the person they're in a relationship with has been abusive in past relationships!!!
This information is important if you are dating, already in a relationship, married, or participate in on-line social networking.
Please visit our site at: www.theweakervessel.org
Please contact me directly by using the contact form on the website.
We are very interested in your feedback and are looking for indivduals who are willing to donate their time, treasure or talent.
www.theweakervessel.org
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