South Africa has seen a troubling rise inkidnappingsin recent years, with victims often subjected to unimaginable psychological and physical trauma. The ordeal of being kidnapped is not only a violation of one’s freedom but also a deeply traumatic experience that leaves lasting scars on the survivor’s psyche. Amanda Rykaart, HPCSA Registered Counsellor (Trauma) and BWRT® practitioner, sheds light on the psychological impact of kidnapping and how victims can navigate the long road to recovery.
Kidnappingis a sudden, unexpected and out of the ordinary event that shatters a person’s sense of safety and control. During the ordeal, victims often experience intense psychological reactions. Initially, there is shock, disbelief, and a sense of unreality. Physical symptoms such as fainting, vomiting, or bladder voiding may occur as the body reacts to the emotional shock.
