Harassed By A Stalker 2013 72018
How to Protect Yourself from Stalking and Harassment
Stalking and harassment are serious crimes that can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. According to the National Center for Victims of Crime, stalking is a repeated pattern of behavior that includes following, watching, or harassing a specific person. It occurs over a period of time and could be defined as threatening behavior. Harassment is any unwanted or unwelcome behavior that causes fear, distress, or annoyance to another person.
harassed by a stalker 2013 72018
Stalking and harassment can have devastating consequences for the victims, such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, post-traumatic stress disorder, and even suicide. Therefore, it is important to know how to protect yourself and seek help if you are being stalked or harassed by someone.
Signs of Stalking and Harassment
Some common signs of stalking and harassment are:
Receiving unwanted phone calls, text messages, emails, letters, or gifts from someone.
Being followed or watched by someone in person or online.
Finding out that someone has accessed your personal information, such as your bank accounts, social media profiles, or medical records.
Being threatened or intimidated by someone verbally or physically.
Having your property damaged or stolen by someone.
Being contacted by someone pretending to be someone else or using a fake identity.
Having someone interfere with your personal or professional relationships.
Being forced to change your daily routine or lifestyle because of someone's behavior.
What to Do If You Are Being Stalked or Harassed
If you are being stalked or harassed by someone, you should take the following steps:
Document it. Keep a record of every incident of stalking or harassment, including the date, time, location, and any other details that you remember. You can also take screenshots, save voicemails, or collect evidence that proves the person's behavior. This will help you when you report it to the authorities or seek legal action.
Report it. Contact your local police department or stalking unit to report the stalking or harassment. Having documented proof of the person's behavior could assist you in receiving a protection order. A protection order is a legal document that prohibits the person from contacting you or coming near you. A legal advocate will be available to help you through the court process.
Notify others. Tell a friend, family member, employer, or any other organization with whom you are involved that you are being stalked or harassed by someone. They can provide you with support and help you stay safe. You can also contact a local agency, such as The Center for Family Safety and Healing, to get help in creating a personalized safety plan.
Avoid contact. Do not respond to any attempts of communication from the person who is stalking or harassing you. This could encourage them to continue their behavior or escalate their actions. Block their phone number, email address, social media accounts, or any other means of contact. Change your online account passwords frequently and turn off location services on your smart phone. Do not post photos or videos that show your exact location at that point in time.
Seek help. Stalking and harassment can take a toll on your physical and mental health. You may experience fear, anger, guilt, shame, isolation, or hopelessness. You are not alone and you are not to blame for what is happening to you. Seek professional help from a counselor, therapist, or support group who can help you cope with your emotions and trauma. You can also call the National Stalking Helpline at 1-800-394-2255 for confidential advice and support.
Conclusion
Stalking and harassment are serious crimes that can affect anyone. If you are being stalked or harassed by someone, you should document it, report it, notify others, avoid contact, and seek help. You have the right to live your life without fear and harassment. You deserve respect and safety. c481cea774