54 The acute trauma
TO THE TRAINER
PART II : THE TRAINING
The acute trauma
Aim . To learn about initial reactions to a traumatic event and how to respond to such reactions with respect and patience .
In this session , we follow the early reactions of the Butterfly Woman after her rape , and the first steps taken by the helper to make contact and offer assistance . Chaotic feelings and fear of others are powerful forces at this stage , and helpers need to make sure they are respectful , give the survivor time , and move slowly when they approach her .
KEY POINT
The story shows that
• When a person is traumatised , her feelings are intense and chaotic .
• Fear and shame may cause a survivor to withdraw and refuse social contact .
• Trauma causes a survivor ’ s confidence in others to collapse .
• It is important to act but , at the same time , helpers must allow the survivor to decide at what point she is ready to make contact and open a conversation .
• For helpers , it is vital to be patient and respect the survivor ’ s fear and withdrawal .
• Openly accepting these reactions is very important .
Make sure that participants grasp the Butterfly Woman ’ s powerful emotional reactions , her chaotic feelings , and her sense of being overwhelmed .