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 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 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.