Something must be done soon to treat with the psychological effects of crime in Trinidad and Tobago.
This is the statement from Chaguanas West MP Dinesh Rambally.
He says that while there are efforts to help with the physical aspects of crime, there are many victims of crime who are left to deal with the devastating psychological effects of criminal activity.
He says it is a matter of great concern that the trauma experienced by victims of crime is often untreated and overlooked.
Speaking with News Power Now this morning MP Rambally said the effects of crime extend far beyond the initial incident; they linger in the form of anxiety, stress, and sometimes debilitating fear.
He maintained these unaddressed psychological scars have far-reaching consequences on the mental and physical health of our citizens.
He explained that there are primary groups comprised of mother, father, children, aunts, uncles, close friends and secondary groups business associates, neighbours etc who are also deeply affected not just the victim.
These, he disclosed, are left to manage the mental pain connected with the crime on their own.
He said to deal with the issue there must be an effort to deal with the curb criminal activity.
He also noted the importance of things like community counselling.
He called Ministry of National Security to develop a comprehensive plan to assist the victims of crime and help them on their path to recovery.