Homicide

Homicide is devastating for families and friends of the person who was murdered. The grief process will not be the same as it might be for someone who died in another way. The violent, unexpected death of your child is one of the most traumatic experiences a person can face, and it prompts a wide range of emotional reactions. The community that the victim was part of is also affected. 

You may feel overcome with disbelief, anger, and sadness with an intensity never experienced before, or you may feel emotionally numb. It is normal for adults and children to experience such intense feelings in the days and weeks following a homicide, and then periodically over time. Survivors are at risk of developing post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other problems, where extreme anxiety, fear, and sadness or nightmares and intrusive thoughts remain constant for weeks or months. Additional support and counseling can be helpful in managing these overwhelming emotions.