Victim of Crime – Family Member or Friend

If you are a family member or friend of a victim of crime, you may be feeling many emotions. This might include distress, shock, anger and confusion. You may want to help the person you care about, but not know how. 

How You Can Help

There are many ways you can help a loved one who is a victim of crime.

• Let them know you believe them and will be there to support them
• Reinforce that the crime was not their fault
• Be patient as your loved one works through their own emotions and reactions. Everyone recovers at their own pace
• Understand the desire not to talk about things. This is a normal reaction
• Do not dismiss the feelings associated with the crime. The effects are real to your loved one and they need your support and understanding
• Ask your loved one what they need
• Encourage your loved one to seek support and counseling. Victim services can help

There are also some ways you can help yourself.

• Allow yourself time to process what has happened
• Give yourself permission to feel angry, sad or confused. What you are feeling is normal
• Do not blame yourself for what has happened
• Look after your physical health by eating well and drinking plenty of fluids. Exercise if you can
• Do not hesitate to seek counselling or support for yourself. Crime can have a profound effect even on those who were not directly victimized

Support Services and More Information

Services are available for victims of crime, family members or loved ones of victims. 

For more information, please visit:

• Victim 
• Services and Resources
• Court Services
• Youth Services
• Indigenous Services
• Services by Need

If you would like to speak with someone to get more information and support, please call VictimLink BC.