At Fraud Victims United, we often hear from people whose lives have been completely upended by fraud — not just financially, but emotionally and psychologically too. Yet this impact is still too often dismissed or ignored by authorities, media, and even friends and family.



We wanted to highlight this powerful article from PA Media that sheds much-needed light on the mental health toll of fraud:
👉 4 Mental Effects of Fraud – and How to Heal After Being Scammed

The piece explores the deep emotional aftermath many victims face, including:

• Anxiety — 38% of recent victims reported experiencing panic attacks, with many struggling to sleep months later.
• Shame — feelings of guilt and humiliation that stop people from speaking out.
• Anger — especially when trust has been exploited in personal or professional contexts.
• Loss of trust — in people, systems, and even one’s own judgment.

As financial crime specialist Sarah Lenette explains in the article:

“Victims may feel a lower sense of security, or worry that [their information] could be used against them and leave them exposed to future scams.”

These stories reflect what so many in our community already know: the emotional toll of fraud can last years — and it is every bit as real as the financial damage.

Recent discussions at the Parliamentary Summit on Investment Fraud & Fairer Financial Services, hosted by the Investment Fraud Committee, also made it clear that mental health must be a central part of any serious response to this epidemic. Survivors deserve not only justice, but support.

The article closes with practical, empowering steps for recovery — including:

• Reporting the fraud without shame
• Talking openly with others to break the silence
• Seeking support from specialist charities like Victim Support
• Rebuilding confidence through action — like securing accounts and learning about fraud tactics

Victim Abbie Blyth sums up what many experience:

“The immediate guilt, shame, and feeling of being a complete failure was the worst experience of my life.”

At Fraud Victims United, we know healing takes time — but it also takes community, validation, and action. Articles like this help build that awareness, and we’re grateful to see the conversation shifting.

🔗 Read the full article here

Please share it with anyone who might be struggling in silence. They are not alone.