What To Do After You've Experienced a Robbery

A robbery or break-in is a traumatic event that leaves you feeling violated and distressed. You may find it difficult to sleep or become jumpy at every sound, feeling uneasy or angry. These emotional responses are part of the healing process, but they can negatively impact your mental health. Here are some ways to regain your sense of calm.

Repairing and Recovering Your Property

You come home only to find that your house has been broken into. Worse yet, you were there when it happened. The very first thing you should do is dial 911. While this may seem like common sense, many victims skip this step, thinking contacting authorities is pointless. However, it’s crucial: you may recover stolen items and help prevent further crime. Also, you won't be able to file an insurance claim without a police report. More details on this later.

If it's clear from the outside that your house has been broken into, do not enter until the police arrive. The burglar could still be inside. Stay in your car and lock the doors, or go to a neighbor's house. If you're certain the intruders have left (maybe you saw them leave), and you’re waiting for police inside, avoid touching anything. The investigators may need to take photos or gather fingerprints. Once the police leave, you can begin cleaning up the mess.

To file an insurance claim, you must report the burglary to the police within 24 hours. Give your insurance agent a list of stolen items and their estimated value. This step is also a way to start processing the trauma of the event. If a door or window was damaged during the break-in, board it up until a professional can come to repair it.

Dealing with the Emotional Fallout

Reorganizing your home is often easier than restoring your peace of mind and sense of security. Becoming a crime statistic can be deeply unsettling. The first step is accepting that the crime occurred and acknowledging the feelings of fear and vulnerability. It’s important to talk to loved ones, particularly in the hours after the break-in, as their support can help you through this difficult time.

Understand that everyone has their own pace when it comes to recovery. You cannot force the healing process—it must unfold naturally. However, there are steps you can take to aid in your recovery. Being proactive about your safety is essential in overcoming emotional trauma. Consider taking self-defense classes, installing an alarm system, adding a shatter-proof screen door, or changing the locks throughout your home. These actions can help reduce feelings of vulnerability. If you feel stuck and notice that your daily life is still deeply affected, it may be helpful to speak with a counselor or therapist.