Traumatic stress

In a few of my english classes this semester and last semester, the professors have been zeroing in on what is now medically described as "Post Traumatic Stress Disorder." PTSD,I believe was first used to diagnose soldiers returning from war. But individuals with nonviolent traumatic events can suffer as well. According to wikipedia, citing a published doctor, "(PTSD) is a severe anxiety disorder that can develop after exposure to any event which results in psychological trauma"

Our discussions have keyed in alot on the different psychological stress Tambu has been suffering. Being torn between values and arguing within herself. Spending a few pages discussing where to stand in line. Putting away stress when she can't think about it anymore. And we have some major episodes in which Tambu's mind and body are completely disconnected.

"THis time I wanted to put my hand up even before Sister asked me. But that would mean I had to open my eyes. THey were closed against the dark green pine and wattle plantations on the mountain slopes, and the great tracts of burn brush beside them, green growth oxidised to ah the better to see those people whose legs were to be blown off. If I opened my eyes, I would end up turning my head. Mesmerised I might forget and the tear might fall. IF i kept the eyes closed, I would not do well, rather face a lifetime of being nothing, like Mai. This because of my sister."

The opening scene is coming back to Tambu. The context in which it first appeared, we're there from the explosion through the hospital and then Tambu returns to school. This event, although well experienced and processed, is moved passed as Tambu moves forward at school, but the psychological stress of that incident returns, and becomes compounded with all these other stressful factors.