Generally, these occur in:

• banks
• post offices
• TAB
• petrol stations
• shops
• armoured vehicles

The threat frequently lasts for some minutes and also affects people involved on the sidelines.
Some common immediate reactions are:

• panic
• helplessness
• tearfulness
• anger
• confusion

Other typical reactions experienced later are:

• fear of being alone
• being easily startled by noises
• suspicion of new or unusual customers
• fear of the dark
• difficulty in leaving your home
• becoming distressed by television or newspaper articles showing holdups/shootings
• wanting to change jobs
• lowered self esteem eg. "I should have done more"
• thinking the assailant will find you

It is important to remind yourself that these reactions are to be expected given the circumstances. Try talking to a friend or counsellor about your feelings.

REMEMBER:
Most people experience these feelings to a greater or lesser degree.