Volume 27 Lesson 3

Treating Victims of Stalking

Karen M. Abrams, MD, FRCPC and Gail Erlick Robinson, MD, DPsych, FRCPC

Dr. Abrams is Assistant Professor of Psychiatry, University of Toronto and Staff Psychiatrist, Programme in Women's Mental Health, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario.

Dr. Robinson is Professor, Psychiatry and Obstetrics/Gynecolog y, University of Toronto and Director, Programme in Women's Mental Health, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario.

Editor's Note

Stalking is an all too common violation of the law and of an individual's civil right to feel and to live safely in her community and in her life.

The authors define symptoms and signs of this abusive situation. In addition, specific reactive symptoms are indicative of victims, such as startle responses and sleeplessness.

Depressive and other anxiety symptoms also often occur, including PTSD, eating problems, and substance use behaviors. Therapy is indicated to discuss all pertinent issues.

Therapists should also consider including the patient's significant others and perhaps a work supervisor in some sessions, so they can be properly supportive and protective.

Like personal abuse experiences, i.e., domestic violence, a group therapy experience with others in similar situations could be helpful as well.