To overcome the effects of trauma it is necessary to examine the experience and work to change the distressing responses produced since the event. To cope with what has happened you need to understand your reactions. This will help you to face up to memories, thoughts and feelings which may have been deeply buried in response to the trauma and may now be hindering you from getting on with your life.

People's responses after a trauma are often so strong and overwhelming that it is quite common for them to feel that 'they are going mad' or 'losing complete control over their life'. Sometimes these thoughts can be so unbearable that people start isolating themselves from others more and more. Such reactions are common and understandable responses to trauma. You may be relieved to hear that you are NOT alone in experiencing these feelings. What's more, if you are experiencing such reactions you can be helped to heal and recover from your trauma.

Working through a trauma can take many forms. Some people are perfectly able to do this by themselves, others may benefit much more from specialist trauma therapy. There are no hard and fast rules. What works best for one person may not work for another. The one factor that is common to all recovery from trauma is that, as you start to regain control, the trauma will gradually loosen its grip.

(C.Herbert & A.Wetmore "Overcoming Traumatic Stress")

(Faure - "Pavane")