Help please- attempted assault

[foxling]

This is not really AIBU because I don't think I am bit I need help and advise.
I really don't know what to do and I was hoping for some help. Whilst walking my dog two months ago a man started following me and then tried to abduct me. I was on a common with nobody about (bad luck as I usually bump into someone every five mins or so) and he started following me and then tried repeatedly to hide in bushes, waiting for me to walk past. Its quite difficult to expain, I was on heathland/ woodland and he kept hiding and then standing out on the path ahead of me. I called the police and they were amazing, they turned up with dogs and thanks to two male cyclists who happened to come by, I got back to my car safely. They already had a description of this man, I guess that's why they turned with dogs.
I don't know what to do. I am now terrified to take my dog on a walk. I am terrified in the house. I have become terrified and it's just getting worse. I'm scared leaving my dd (15) in the house by herself. I have gone from being a free spirit to somebody who is scared of their own shadow.
Any advice on how to move forward from this would be amazing, thank you.

I’m sorry this happened to you. Could you get some trauma counselling?

That must be frightening, did the police have a liason officee who could talk to you about what happened afterwards,was he caught. Practically you could join a local dog walking group,so you'd always have company out walking. Your GP might also help you with some counselling, this man mustn't be allowed to ruin your and your dd life.

therapy/counselling

you can self refer online

Have the police put you in touch with Victim Support? If not, you could contact them.

Thank you, for your replies. I hadn’t even thought of victim support so thank you.
and a dog walking group is a good idea too.
I keep asking myself, why has this happened. It all still seems so surreal ☹️

I am sorry this happened to you ,it must have been utterly terrifying .
I look back on my youth and how fearless i was when walking by myself or with my dog ,different now though ! i avoid so many situations and environments all because of vile dangerous men and it makes me so bloody angry that we are in danger and frightened and vulnerable and everything else they make us feel.
I do not hate men l'm married to one and have produced 2 of them and i know the vast majority wouldn't dream of behaving like the monster who assaulted you.
Please get as much help as possible from the police and their resources, don't give this bastard any more power over you.
I hope you are feeling better soon you have had terrible experience and i think the way you are feeling at the moment is understandable.