Feeling Stalked in London
I’m a 22-year-old female and have been living in London since August. Overall, things have been pretty normal, but I’ve experienced multiple incidents of men following me in different crowded areas, like Tottenham Court Road near the Outernet, Oxford Circus, St. Paul’s, and Waterloo.
One particularly unsettling experience was when a man followed me into a station and seemed to take pleasure in it. As an international student, I’m not really sure how to handle these situations. I can’t carry a weapon, and I dislike depending on others to come to my aid. This has even occurred when other people were around.
I’m curious to know how common this is and how others cope with similar experiences, as this has become quite frequent for me.
I’m really sorry to hear that you’re experiencing this. It’s understandable to feel uneasy when you’re being followed, especially in a busy city like London. While stalking and harassment can happen anywhere, it’s not something you should have to face alone, and there are steps you can take to help manage your safety.
Trust Your Instincts: If you feel uncomfortable or sense that someone is following you, trust your gut. Look for safe places to go, like shops or public areas where there are more people.
Stay Aware of Your Surroundings: Keep your phone close and your head up. Being aware can help you spot someone who might be following you and react accordingly.
Change Up Your Routine: If possible, vary the routes you take and the times you go out. This can make it harder for someone to predict your movements.
Have a Support System: Talk to friends, classmates, or even your university’s support services about what you’re experiencing. They can offer guidance and may even accompany you in problematic areas.
Report It: If someone follows you and you feel threatened, don’t hesitate to report it to the police. They take these matters seriously and can provide you with advice on what to do next.
Emergency Contacts: Have emergency numbers saved on your phone. Familiarize yourself with local services, like contact numbers for safety apps or local police stations.
Consider Self-Defense Classes: While you mentioned not wanting to carry a weapon, self-defense classes can boost your confidence and provide you with tools to protect yourself.
Finally, remember that you’re not alone in this, and there are people and resources available to support you. Your safety is important, so don’t hesitate to reach out for help when you need it.