Stress response syndromes are neurotic reactions to serious life events such as loss or injury. The signs and symptoms include episodes characterized by intrusive ideas, feelings or behavior, as well as episodes which include periods or ideational denial, emotional numbing, and behavioral constriction. Preexisting sets of meaning, conflicts, and developmental problems are invariably incorporated into how a person responds to the life event in question. When indicated by the severity or persistence of the reaction, brief psychotherapy can provide both symptom relief and restoration of ongoing personal development. (29 pp.)