In doctor's offices, therapy sessions, and in the courtroom, the term Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is being discussed with increasing frequency as the crippling effects of this severe life stress are identified.This is the first book for victims (and their families) that describes what PTSD is, including the linkage between addiction and this kind of trauma, and shows how to marshall the skills of stress-resistant persons to recover from its debilitating effects.The causes of PTSD are many, all associated with violence and abuse. They range from rape and battering and child abuse to the horrors of combat or calamities like natural disasters and auto and airplane crashes. These traumatic events are overwhelming in their impact and destroy the victims' sense of being in control of their lives, and alter attachments to others. If left untreated these disruptions, along with physical symptoms such as being unable to relax, being easily startled, or having recurring nightmares or intrusive memories, form this medical condition. Although an expert in the treatment of stress, Raymond Flannery writes with great clarity for the lay-person, and offers real hope that recovery and healing is possible. Therapists and counselors will find this book to be of great assistance in their efforts to help victims. Read Less