Imagine you are a survivor of a major natural disaster that killed many people and nearly took your ...

Posttraumatic growth is usually reported by trauma survivors who experience it as having three interrelated themes: (1) relationships are strengthened or enhanced, (2) self views become more positive, and (3) world views or life philosophies are changed in positive directions. For example, survivors may feel more compassion, altruism, and gratitude toward friends and family. They may have a greater sense of resiliency and personal strength along with a greater acceptance of their personal limitations. In addition, they may view life and their world with a greater sense of appreciation. In general posttraumatic growth seems to be associated with a perception that one has experienced a high level of threat or harm and has been able to exert some control over the traumatic events or outcomes.

Posttraumatic growth does not appear to be a mere polar opposite of PTSD, but is rather a product of successful adaptation to trauma that may emerge independently from any point on the stress reaction continuum. Some describe the experience as having been given a second chance. There may be greater mindfulness of everyday experiences that had previously been taken for granted. Relationships and opportunities may be valued more highly. Individuals may report greater clarity of purpose, meaning, or direction in life.