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Getting over a near abduction
Last summer at the end of June I was walking home when a strange black car going down a busy street honked at me, turned around, and drove beside me halfway down my own street. When I stopped to get a better look the window road down and a man popped his head out to tell me to get into the car. I think I was in such a state of shock that I became numb, I usually break down in minor situations, and I just said no and continued walking. I finally started running and looked back to find him gone. I called the police later thatday, after calling my mother because I was still in a shock, and didn't hear back for a week. Turns out the same man tried to grab a 6 year old up the street. I was fine back then, able to laugh it off as the police drove me around the streets since the man lives so close to me, but now I'm having nightmares about what could have happened. What should I do? Whats going on with me now? Was I that bad in shock that its just finally wearing off?
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Want to answer more questions in the Health & Fitness category?
Maybe give some free advice about: Mental health?
I am a great deal older than most of the advisers on this site, so my advice will be somewhat different from what you may have received and may continue to receive from others
It is very possible that you are suffering from some form of PTSD. What happened to you can be extremely upsetting. You did the right thing by walking away and then running home and calling your mom and then the police. The police will eventually catch this person; they almost always do the exception being that the person moves on to another city. By running away you scared this person more than he scared you for he knew you would be calling the police; something he wanted no part of so he left the area. You did the right thing and should be proud of yourself.
As for the PTSD: It is understandable that after the event is over and the adrenaline has worn off you would experience some form of delayed shock or distress. When it goes on for any length of time then you need to talk with your doctor. Have mom make an appointment for you to meet with your family doctor as soon as possible. There are medications the doctor can prescribe or the doctor can suggest you talk with a therapist who will help you understand what has happened and help you work through it.
There is one other thing you can do while waiting to see the doctor. There is an organization called RAINN. RAINN stands for Rape Assault & Incest National Network. RAINN operate 24/7 crisis telephone hotlines that serve victims of sexual violence. Volunteers and staff at these organizations are trained on issues surrounding sexual violence and can provide support and information about individual or group counseling, medical attention, reporting a crime to law enforcement as well as many other services. Frequently, affiliate centers have a wide range of services, or can refer to other local services for the following Individual counseling and other services.
While you have not been physically assaulted by this person you have suffered harm because of your encounter with him. The people at RAINN can help you find professionals in your community who can help you work through this experience.
Good luck, and always remember you did nothing wrong, in fact you did everything right.
To find a local RAINN affiliate call 1.800.656.HOPE
Web Address: www.rainn.org/.
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