Dear Dorothy,
I recently fell victim to a scam and lost a significant amount of money. It’s been weighing heavily on my mind, and I feel so foolish for letting it happen. How do I cope with the financial loss and move forward without feeling ashamed?
– Anita
Dear Anita,
Firstly, please know that you are not alone in this experience. Many people have been targeted by scammers, and it is not a reflection of your intelligence or worth. It is important to acknowledge the feelings of shame and embarrassment that often accompany such situations, but also to remind yourself that you are not defined by this event.
Here are some steps to help you cope and move forward:
- Seek support: Talk to someone you trust about what happened. Sharing your experience can help alleviate feelings of isolation and shame.
- Report the scam: If you haven’t already, report the scam to the appropriate authorities. This may not recover your money, but it can help prevent others from falling victim.
- Focus on what you can control: While you can’t change the past, you can take steps to safeguard yourself in the future. Educate yourself about common scams and be cautious with your personal and financial information.
- Practice self-compassion: It is natural to be hard on yourself after being scammed, but try to be gentle and understanding. Remind yourself that everyone makes mistakes, and this experience can be a lesson in resilience and awareness.
- Explore counselling: If you find that the emotional impact of the scam is overwhelming, consider seeking professional counselling. A therapist can help you process your emotions and develop coping strategies.
Remember, recovery from a scam takes time, and it is okay to ask for help along the way. Be kind to yourself as you navigate this challenging experience.
Wishing you strength and resilience,
Dorothy