Being held hostage is a life changing event. Getting home is often not the end of your journey – it is the start of a new one. A new period of recovery and reintegration begins, which can take months or even years to complete. This will at times be difficult – but with the right support and knowledge you can get through it.

With the right care, support and knowledge, those returning from captivity can make a full recovery. Everyone is different, and therefore each person will have a different path to follow.

This section contains information, guidance, and links to films, books and podcasts that can help you make sense of what you have been through, understand what might lie ahead, and help yourself to tackle some of the common challenges faced by returning hostages.

As a hostage, returning home can be a confusing and stressful time. In this sections you will find guidance and information about things you may experience following your release.

Upon returning, you may find yourself in a whirlwind of reuniting with friends and family. In this section you will find information and advice on how to manage relationships with family and friends.

Being held captive for any amount of time is likely to have an effect on your health. It is important to focus on make time for your physical health when you return home to help you recover as quickly and effectively as possible. This section provides information on the types of issues you may be facing and how to overcome them.

Being kidnapped is a traumatic event that could have prolonged health impacts if it is not dealt with. Although only a few hostages will go on to develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), it is important to know the warning signs. In this section you will find information about dealing with stress, anxiety and the other effects of a traumatic incident.

When you decide to return to work, there are a number of considerations that will factor into your reintegration into the workplace. In this section you will learn more about how to handle your return to work after release.

Recovering from being kidnapped is not instantaneous and requires time and patience. You have been through a traumatic event and will need to focus on rebuilding and recovering from being held captive. In this section you can find information on managing your recovery over the long term.