NSAW 2025 | Health Response: Spotting Stalking

Every year, more than 1.5 million people in the UK experience stalking, yet many victims suffer in silence. The effects go beyond emotional distress - stalking can have a serious impact on physical and mental health. That’s why this year’s National Stalking Awareness Week (22–25 April) is focusing on the healthcare sector’s role in spotting stalking.

Recent data from Essex Police reveals 16,688 incidents of stalking and harassment recorded in the 12-month period ending October 2024. National statistics further highlight the gravity of the situation, with one in seven individuals aged 16 and over in England and Wales having experienced stalking at least once.

For many victims, their GP, nurse, or therapist may be the first professional they turn to for help. But without clear signs of physical harm, stalking can be easily overlooked. By understanding the signs and responding appropriately, healthcare professionals can be a vital first line of support.

Read Lia's Story

The Health Impact of Stalking

Stalking isn’t just about persistent messages or unwanted attention - it’s a pattern of behaviour that causes fear and distress. The toll on health can be significant, leading to:

• Anxiety, depression, and PTSD

• Sleep disturbances and chronic stress-related illnesses

• Headaches, stomach issues, and high blood pressure

• Self-harm and suicidal thoughts

Many victims don’t immediately recognise stalking as the cause of their symptoms. They may report stress, difficulty sleeping, or panic attacks without realising that ongoing fear and hypervigilance are taking a toll on their well-being.

How Healthcare Professionals Can Help

Recognise the Signs

Stalking victims may present with:

• Recurrent anxiety, panic attacks, or depression

• Unexplained stress-related physical symptoms

• Trouble sleeping or sudden weight loss/gain

• Fearful behaviour or reluctance to discuss certain topics

If a patient mentions ongoing unwanted attention, being followed, or excessive messages, it could indicate stalking.

Encourage patients to document incidents (dates, times, interactions) and report concerns to the police if they feel unsafe.

Ask the Right Questions

Many victims don’t use the word “stalking.” Instead, they might describe feeling watched or unsafe in their daily lives. Asking direct but gentle questions can help:

• “Has someone been repeatedly contacting or following you in a way that makes you feel uncomfortable?”

• “Do you feel afraid of someone, even if they haven’t physically harmed you?”

• “Is there a pattern of behaviour that’s making you feel unsafe?”

Believe and Validate

If a patient discloses stalking, listen without judgement. Dismissing or downplaying their fears can discourage them from seeking further help. Instead, acknowledge their feelings:

• “I hear you, and this isn’t your fault.”

• “You don’t have to deal with this alone—there is support available.”

What are we doing in Essex?

Home Office Funding has enabled us and other partners within SETDAB to actively work to protect victims of stalking and domestic abuse. This funding supports various projects across Essex designed to target perpetrators of stalking and domestic abuse, helping them change their behaviour before it escalates.

The funding has been used to pilot new approaches, such as early intervention for first-time offenders and mentoring programs like the Goodman and Sisters in Strength projects, which educate young people on healthy relationships and provide support to those affected by abusive behaviour. These programs aim to break the cycle of abuse and reduce harm.

Continued grant funding means Independent Stalking Advocacy Caseworkers (ISACs) can continue to support victims across Essex. ISAC’s play a crucial role in supporting victims of stalking, safely guiding them through the criminal justice system and using their specialist knowledge to help victims understand their rights.

Jane Gardner, Deputy Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner and SETDAB Chair said "It’s vital to support victims of stalking across Essex. Independent Stalking Advocacy Caseworkers (ISACs) are essential in providing the specialised support that victims need. These dedicated professionals are at the heart of our broader strategy to protect victims and prevent stalking and domestic abuse in our community."

Get Support from Next Chapter

Healthcare settings aren’t always equipped to handle stalking cases directly, but you can connect patients to the right services, including ours.

Direct them to our website (thenextchapter.org.uk) where they can drop us a line either by webchat, email or phone.

They can also access The Suzy Lamplugh Trust, who facilitate National Stalking Awareness Week and operate the National Stalking Helpline, which is available for victims across the country: 0808 802 0300

They also have an ‘Am I Being Stalked?’ online assessment, which can help a victim gain validation for their experience: https://www.suzylamplugh.org/am-i-being-stalked-tool  

Look After Your Own Well-Being

Supporting victims can be emotionally challenging. If you’re a healthcare worker dealing with complex cases, make sure to:

• Seek guidance from safeguarding leads in your workplace

• Access mental health and peer support resources

• Take time for self-care and professional development

Every Conversation Counts

Stalking can be isolating, but healthcare professionals can make a difference by simply listening and signposting to support. By recognising the signs and responding with care, we can ensure that victims are heard, believed, and helped.

‍