# AI encourages timeline reconstruction of traumatic events for PTSD treatment without stabilization phase

- **ID:** `mental-health/trauma-timeline-reconstruction`
- **Domain:** mental-health
- **Category:** data_error
- **Error Code:** `PTSD-TIMELINE-001`
- **Verification:** ai_generated
- **Fix Rate:** 82%

## Root Cause

Trauma timeline reconstruction, a component of cognitive processing therapy, can cause re-traumatization if done without prior stabilization skills; AI skips the essential safety planning phase.

## Workarounds

1. **Require completion of a stabilization phase with at least 3 grounding techniques before any trauma processing. Provide a checklist: 'Before we create a timeline, can you name 2 grounding techniques you can use if you feel overwhelmed?'** (88% success)
   ```
   Require completion of a stabilization phase with at least 3 grounding techniques before any trauma processing. Provide a checklist: 'Before we create a timeline, can you name 2 grounding techniques you can use if you feel overwhelmed?'
   ```
2. **Use a guided timeline format with cognitive restructuring prompts, not just free recall. Include columns for 'Event', 'Automatic Thought', 'Balanced Thought'.** (80% success)
   ```
   Use a guided timeline format with cognitive restructuring prompts, not just free recall. Include columns for 'Event', 'Automatic Thought', 'Balanced Thought'.
   ```
3. **Offer a 'safe mode' where the user describes the event using only sensory details (sights, sounds) without emotional narrative, reducing activation.** (75% success)
   ```
   Offer a 'safe mode' where the user describes the event using only sensory details (sights, sounds) without emotional narrative, reducing activation.
   ```

## Dead Ends

- **** — Trigger warnings do not prevent re-traumatization; user needs active coping strategies and grounding techniques first (75% fail)
- **** — Without structured grounding protocols, breaks can lead to dissociation or rumination (60% fail)
- **** — Free-form journaling about trauma can reinforce avoidance or worsen hyperarousal if not focused on cognitive restructuring (70% fail)