mental images/anxiety

[complicated]

Last week I was carjacked and threatened with being shot by a gang in the us.

Since we got back I just can't get the images out of my head. I havn't slept, I feel sick all the time and can't eat. I darnt leave the house incase it happens again. I feel like my number is up and I have escaped it so death is waiting around every corner for me, I know it sounds stupid. I keep wondering what would have happened if the kids were with me.

I'm supposed to be going back to work tomorow but the thought makes me feel ill. I don't know what to do or how long it will take to forget about it and move on.

You need to speak to both your GP and Victim Support even though the crime was committed in the US. You will not get past this without support and counselling to relieve the trauma. You sound like you are suffering from PTSD - post traumatic stress disorder.

My friend had to have Cognitive beviour therapy to get past a horrible experience at the hands of a stranger. But, it's early days for you yet. A week is nothing.

Have you told your work what happened to you? My friend was terrified to tell her work what happened to her, but when she did they sent flowers (which she was afraid to answer the door for, but still, her neigbour took them and rang her and told her!).

First thing, tell work. They may be a lot more supportive than you imagine. Then yes, go to the gp.

What a horrible fright you have had.