So You've Been Cyber Stalked? A Hidden Driver of Mental Health Barriers to Care

An guide to countering stalkers

I’m a psychiatrist. I have been stalked. I have had death threats made against me—in a Tarisoff phone call— on my actual birthday! The worst part? It can often be done anonymously. Wondering who could be after you…can be nightmarish! This newsletter post reviews the data on stalking (particularly among mental health pros), and some steps one can take to protect yourself.

Online stalkers and trolls often think they can hide behind fake names, fake accounts, and the right to free speech!

The truth? Stalking is a crime with severe penalties— both as a civil matter and in criminal law. Let’s address the grim issue of criminal cyberstalking. Many, many health professionals are stalked. Mental Health Professionals—therapists, nurses, psychologists, and psychiatrists are particularly vulnerable.

Cyber Stalking is a Violent Crime

It’s a violent crime; he just used cyber tools to carry it out,” said Special Agent Christopher Petrowski of the FBI’s Houston office.

The criminal law, upd…