Lets begin by dispelling a few myths.
Myths Regarding the Use of Force
MYTH 1:So-called post-shooting trauma is all about guilt.
MYTH 2:Only a neurotic would feel badly about killing a criminal!
In the wake of a lawful self-defense shooting, the stress can be overwhelming. However, there is light at the end of the tunnel.
Thats not what its about.
Often, lawsuits or even politically motivated criminal charges can be filed.
People whove been forced to defend themselves may be unfriended and shunned.
A self-defense shooting may only take seconds, but the aftermath will last vastly longer. Image: Gail Pepin
MYTH 3:Just man up and get over it!
Easier said than done.
Symptoms
Of the many known symptoms, two are most pervasive.
Being depressed over something depressing is normal and not necessarily “clinical depression.” Image: Gail Pepin
(Sociological, you cant do much to control it.)
For the most part, severity varies with how people react.
If its seen by society as clear-cut self-defense, problems can be relatively minimal.
Beware of self-medication with alcohol or other substances. These are not sound or long-term solutions for trauma. Image: Gail Pepin
Even those who are recognized for saving innocent lives heroically can experience the Mark of Cain syndrome.
The above-mentioned Mark of Cain can lead to social isolation for self and family.
Anxiety can become significant for both self and family.
In times of stress and crisis, be aware of conflicting medication issues. Image: Gail Pepin
(Is the prosecutor going to charge me?
Is the family of the deceased going to sue me?
Depression often accompanies anxiety.
Professional therapy can help, so long as the therapist understands your situation.
Self-medication and substance abuseare real risk in these situations.
People who are hurt naturally reach for a crutch.
Beware of pharmaceutical conflicts,too.
These things dont play well together.
Thats more likely to get you a therapist who understands this particular kind of case.
People handle any crisis of any kind better if theyre prepared for it beforehand.
As a private citizen, strongly consider joining a post-self-defense support group.
Fearing that the six-figure legal fees would bankrupt his family, that young Marine committed suicide.
Instead, tell them how glad you are they survived a near-death experience.
Offer to take them to dinner or a day at the beach.
Let them know you still value them and youre in their corner.
There will be unpleasant side effects.
Applying killing force to save innocent human life can have painful, even life-changing side effects, too.
Those who are prepared to face it may suffer less than those who pretend that it cant happen.
