Earthquake Baby. Amy Andrews

the funny thing about PTSD is its ability to rear its ugly head when people least expect it. Sufferers can cruise along for years and then something will happen—doesn’t even have to be very big—and wham! They’re losing it. Big time.’

      ‘I know that, Jack. But it won’t happen to me.’

      ‘No.’ He nodded knowingly, ‘Of course, you’re OK. You’ve dealt with it.’

      ‘I have,’ she sighed, rubbing her eyes.

      ‘Well, if that was true, going to the memorial service wouldn’t be a problem for you. But it obviously is. I suspect that’s because there are still some demons lurking. The effects of PTSD can be quite debilitating. Some people can’t even get out of bed, let alone hold down a job. Who was the Einstein that recommended you take up this kind of nursing?’

      ‘I didn’t ask anyone’s permission, Jack. I kind of just stumbled into it and loved it and stayed.’

      ‘Didn’t your therapist advise you not to?’

      ‘I didn’t start working here until after my therapy finished.’

      ‘Well, that’s just as well because anyone worth their salt would know there are two important factors to decrease the risk of PTSD. One…’ he held up his finger ‘…deal with your issues. Two…’ he held up another finger ‘…reduce life stressors. Not hold hands with them, Laura. Reduce them. But you…’ he jabbed his finger at her ‘…go and choose the world’s most stressful job!’

      ‘Actually, I think air traffic controller holds that honour.’

      ‘Laura,’ he groaned, exasperated. He had to make her see that she could be setting herself up for a real fall.

      ‘Jack.’ She sprang up, a frustrated laugh escaping. I’ve given you a fair hearing but enough already! I am not going to crack up on the job! I’m fine. I’ve been fine for a long time now and you dragging it all up again is not going to help me. Obviously this is more your issue than mine!’

      ‘Laura—’

      ‘Butt…out…Jack,’ she whispered loudly, emphasising each word, and left the room without a backward glance.

      Great, he thought, contemplating the empty room. That went well!