Disturbance of the peace at Christmas time: Burglars rob pensioner of her memories!

Disturbance of the peace at Christmas time: Burglars rob pensioner of her memories!

A break-in in Leonding broke the heart of 86-year-old Elfride P. (name changed by the editors). The pensioner, who is facing the latest consequences of her trauma with remarkable courage, only realized that her home had been the victim of another break-in after a report from her neighbor. “Again?” was her sad reaction, she remembers in an interview with “Today”. It wasn't the first time that the house was the focus of burglars just before Christmas - it was robbed at the same time five years ago. The intruders left behind devastated rooms and stole valuable gifts as well as memorabilia, including a valuable gramophone that was her grandmother's last inheritance. The estimated damage amounts to several hundred euros, while the insurance company will provide replacements for the gifts, but Elfride is in the difficult position of finding suitable alternatives at short notice.

Psychological consequences of a burglary

The physical and emotional safety of burglary victims is severely compromised. According to a study, 75% of those affected by a break-in experience a paralyzing feeling of insecurity. Older people like Elfride are particularly affected by the events and report intense feelings of fear and anxiety. The psychological aftereffects can be devastating: some sufferers even develop post-traumatic stress disorders. Psychological support is therefore essential to heal the emotional scars and regain a sense of normality. Organizations like the White Ring offer group and individual therapy to help those affected manage their fears while learning to increase their safety. Support from neighbors and friends is also important in mitigating the psychological consequences and restoring a sense of security.

Although many burglary victims try to get their lives back together as quickly as possible, Elfride's case shows that deep fears and the need for additional security precautions still exist. Studies show that between 15 and 20 percent of those affected suffer from long-term anxiety and support from professionals is crucial to promote the emotional healing process. The break-in not only caused material losses, but also significantly undermined confidence in one's own safety.

How Today and Rotelines report, it is good to explain the psychological effects of break-ins and point out how important it is to treat both material and psychological damage accordingly.