| Title: | Trauma and Recovery: The Aftermath of Violence – From Domestic Abuse to Political Terror |
| Author: | Judith Herman |
| Year: | 2015 |
| Importance: | 5/5 |
| Accessibility: | 2/5 |
| Recommended: | 4/5 |
Herman’s seminal book on psychological trauma and recovery from its grip was a hard read. It uses more academic language than Pete Walker’s easily accessible book, but turning every page was pretty much a lightbulb moment as I came to learn the neurological underpinnings to the struggles I’ve always had with my head.
Trauma is never a standalone issue, and to conquer it we will have to work together as society. Herman gives a great overview of psychodrama throughout history which helps us understand why trauma is still badly supported within mental health services.
If you can make it through to the end, Herman instead offers hope for a trauma-informed society with this very compassionate take on this often painful subject.
I would highly recommend this as one of the key reads about trauma, which is often referenced elsewhere, but it won’t be for everybody.
Have you read this book too? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
