They will be encouraged to review the experience, tell their stories, and express their feelings. They will learn that their responses are normal and be advised to resume everyday activities as soon as possible. It says such early intervention can prevent short-term trauma having an impact in the long term. However, it also says that some patients will be reluctant to discuss their experiences, and, because of the cause of the disorder, perhaps with good reason. The challenge for the therapist, it says, is to remain calm while listening to horrifying stories.
Therapists have to avoid both over-commitment and detachment.
It notes that some patients find it easier to discuss their memories under hypnosis. Other therapists, it says, feel it is not so important to relive and deal with the traumatic memory itself as to cope with present symptoms and problems. They use the same techniques that are used I helping people overcome phobias to help people overcome fear of things that evoke the trauma. In severe cases drugs such as Prozac can be used. Ms Searle says the syndrome requires professional attention.