Now That Jayme Closs Has Been Found, How To Help

BARRON COUNTY, WI -- When news broke that missing Wisconsin teen Jayme Closs was found alive on Thursday, the town where she lived rejoiced in the miraculous news.

Sue Allard told the Star Tribune that she could barely express her joy after learning the news that her niece had been discovered. "Praise the Lord," Allard said. "It's the news we've been waiting on for three months. I can't wait to get my arms around her. I just can't wait."

For the jubilation and relief that comes with the news of the recovery of an abducted person, mental health professionals and survivors alike urge patience and compassion with those who suffered.

"Kidnapping is one of the most psychologically damaging crimes of all. Victims typically take many years to heal from the psychological wounds inflicted upon them, and some never completely recover. Kidnappings cause deep emotional and mental scars that leave victims to battle through issues of trust, independence, love, sex, respect, and a litany of others," Francis A. Akwash, Department of Psychology Faculty of Social Sciences Nasarawa State University, said in a March 2016 paper titled "The Pyschological Impact of Kidnapping. "Kidnapping places its victims under psychological pressure similar to those that experience trauma."

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Likewise, Elizabeth Smart, the Utah woman who was abducted when she was 14 years old and held for nine months before her discovery said she was thrilled that Jayme was found this week.

Although she expressed joy in Jayme's discovery, she was also mindful to caution members of the public to give she and her family space during this trying time.

“I’m praying for Jayme and all her family that they can have a joyous reunion and as the rest of the country celebrates alongside this happy occasion we all are mindful to give the family their space and privacy on their road to finding a new sense of normal and moving forward,” Smart wrote on Instagram.

Fundraiser Ends, New One Begins

A fundraiser on Facebook commissioned during the nationwide search for Jayme has concluded, with donors raising more than $15,000 for the family.

Another fundraiser has been started this week following her rescue.

Images From Barron

A local Pastor had his faith tested by Jayme's disappearance, he admitted.

A local bar in Barron shows the jubilation after Jayme was found.

Outside city hall, officials welcomed Jayme home:

Image Via Barron County Sheriff's Office