Break

Option 1
Consider that the event did not take place and treat it as faulty occurrence in memory, a mistaken dream/nightmare. This works fairly well, as the nature of the "memory", given the mental state, bears a striking resemblance to a dream. The event itself, having only occurred on a screen, has a built-in separation from what is currently accepted as reality. One should ignore all evidence of the event's grounding in reality and make no attempt to re-crystallize the event. This option concedes a break with reality, but minimizes trauma.

Option 2
Consider that the event took place in currently accepted reality.

Subroute A
Deny the event's relevance to the self. Insist that the event has no bearing on one's own experience or trajectory in life. Further minimizes trauma if executed successfully. Expect difficulties.

Subroute B
Accept full existence and relevance of the event to the self, and choose to affirm the event's reflective nature of the self and its worth. Potentially maximizes trauma.


Option 2: Subroute B is the least successful course of action though often the easiest. Should it be pursued, one should be cautious. If the self finds itself unable to adapt to the implications (whether true or invented) of the event, it may find itself more prone to panic, paranoia, and depression.