What constitutes a traumatic event? How and why does trauma affect people differently and what is a normal response? These are important questions asked on a daily basis. This concise yet comprehensive guidebook provides an accessible and highly referenced resource of practical advice and information on post traumatic distress. Dr O'Brien’s coverage ranges from a brief historical perspective on post traumatic illness and its prevalence right through to the present-day legal implications. We are reminded that a diagnosis of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is by no means the only possible response to trauma and a helpful chapter is also devoted to the definition of a normal response. A broad range of theoretical and practical viewpoints are closely examined including an evaluation of management approaches and possibilities for prevention.