Author Aphrodite Matsakis is one of the foremost experts on post-traumatic stress disorder and its many aspects. She covers many topics in this book, such as:* Find out if you have PTSD.* How to cope with ptsd, anger, grief, and survivor guilt.* Recognize related problems such as depression, substance abuse, compulsive behavior, and low self-esteem.* Identify "triggers" that set off flashbacks, anxiety attacks, and other symptoms.* Gain a sense of empowerment and hope.Chapter 1, "What is PTSD? Do I Have It?" and Chapter 2, "The Biochemistry of PTSD"are designed to help you determine if you suffer from PTSD and whether you have a clinical depression or engage in some addictive behavior as a result of PTSD.Chapter 1 will help you decide if you have full-blown or partial PTSD, or just a few PTSD symptoms.In Chapter 2 you will find a questionnaire which will help you know whether you are suffering from a clinical depression, one of the various addictions, or both.Matsakis writes: "If you discover that you suffer from one or more of the problems described in these chapters, do not disparage yourself; you are more than your problem. You, as a human being, are more than just a PTSD case, an alcoholic, or a compulsive eater. These are but parts of yourself. But left unattended these problems can consume more of your life than you want to give them. One reason for reading this book is to understand your conflicts and pain surrounding the trauma, and to prevent the symptoms you so despise from dominating your life (p.11.)Some other chapter titles are:* Feelings, Thoughts, and Traumatic Events* Why Am I Acting This Way? Triggers* Understanding Grief and Sorrow* War and Combat* Domestic Violence and Sexual Abuse* Getting Help- Survivor Groups and Therapy ProgramsThis is one of the most educational and comprehensive books on PTSD that I have found. It contains great information about specific traumas and suggests techniques for dealing with them. It offers lots of references and resources.This is an excellent book for both professionals and lay people. Plus it is a "must-have" for anyone living with PTSD, and for those who love them. Very highly recommended reading!