The Anniversary Effect and Scam Victims – 2024

The Anniversary Effect and Scam Victims

Helping Scam Victims Understand and Be Prepared for a Major Trigger!

Primary Category: Scam Victim Recovery Psychology

Authors:
• Vianey Gonzalez B.Sc(Psych) – Licensed Psychologist Specialty in Crime Victim Trauma Therapy, Neuropsychologist, Certified Deception Professional, Psychology Advisory Panel & Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
• Tim McGuinness, Ph.D. – Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

The anniversary effect refers to the resurfacing of painful emotions around the anniversary of a traumatic event, which can be especially difficult for scam victims. Dates tied to the start or end of the scam, or the realization of being deceived, can trigger overwhelming feelings of fear, guilt, shame, or anger.

These emotions may catch victims off guard, making them feel like they are back at square one in their recovery. Scam victims may experience increased anxiety, stress, flashbacks, or even withdraw from others. However, there are ways to cope with the anniversary effect, including preparing in advance, practicing grounding techniques, seeking support, engaging in self-care, and even transforming the day into a healing ritual.

An Insight Into Coping with Emotional Trauma After Becoming A Scam Victim – 2024

An Insight Into Coping with Emotional Trauma After Becoming A Scam Victim

Helping Scam Victims Better Understand Emotional Trauma Coping and Avoidance

A SCARS Institute Insight

Primary Category: Scam Victim Recovery Psychology

Authors:
• Vianey Gonzalez B.Sc(Psych) – Licensed Psychologist Specialty in Crime Victim Trauma Therapy, Neuropsychologist, Certified Deception Professional, Psychology Advisory Panel & Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
• Tim McGuinness, Ph.D. – Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

The experience of being scammed can leave victims feeling trapped in an emotional cage, where avoidance of uncomfortable emotions and triggers severely limits their ability to live fully. Avoidance manifests in various ways, including delaying or avoiding reporting the crime to the police, steering clear of financial matters, social interactions, online activities, and even conversations about scams, leading to increased anxiety and isolation.

This withdrawal provides temporary relief but ultimately reinforces the emotional cage, deepening the trauma. To break free, victims can engage in strategies such as gradual exposure to feared situations, mindfulness practices, seeking support from friends, family, or professionals, and focusing on self-care activities.

These steps help victims confront and process their emotions, reducing the power of triggers and expanding their comfort zones, allowing them to reclaim their lives and move toward healing and recovery.