Stages of Trauma and Recovery

Reactivation

This phase, sometimes referred to as the "life-falls-apart" stage, is usually triggered by an event that stirs up memories associated with the assault. When a victim seeks help at this stage, it can confuse family and friends who thought that their loved one had recovered when in fact the victim had been in denial.

Victims may experience—

• Depression.
• Suicidal thoughts.
• Feelings of guilt, shame, helplessness, and confusion.
• Academic or relationship difficulties.
• Physical symptoms (e.g., headaches, gastric problems).
• Nightmares.
• Flashbacks.
• Changes in eating or sleeping patterns.