German Trauma Counselors See High Demand for Victims of GDR Dictatorship

Brandenburg, Germany – Over 35 years after the reunification of Germany, the need for trauma counseling among victims of political persecution under the former German Democratic Republic (GDR) dictatorship remains significant. Petra Morawe, who oversees trauma counseling services for victims of political injustice in Brandenburg, reports that demand is consistently high, with all available appointments typically booked.

"The demand has been high since the start of trauma counseling for this group of people. All available appointments are usually fully booked," Morawe stated. She noted that a waiting list has now been established, indicating a persistent need for these specialized services. The state of Brandenburg offers these counseling sessions to former political prisoners and their affected family members.

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The demand has been high since the start of trauma counseling for this group of people. All available appointments are usually fully booked.

The program targets individuals who continue to feel the impact of political injustice or who supported someone who experienced traumatic events in the GDR. Morawe explained that many victims endured a range of repressive measures, including institutionalization in GDR youth welfare reformatories, political imprisonment, character assassination, psychological terror, and professional persecution. "In most cases, it was not one measure that led to health damage, but a bundle of state repressive measures that were used over a longer period," she said.

These experiences often led to post-traumatic stress disorders, resulting in significant health and social problems. Morawe detailed common symptoms such as severe sleep and relaxation disorders, recurring nightmares, and depressive symptoms. Many individuals also develop a loss of trust in others, particularly towards authorities and medical institutions. The long-term effects of such trauma continue to affect individuals decades after the fall of the Berlin Wall, highlighting the enduring legacy of the GDR's oppressive regime.

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In most cases, it was not one measure that led to health damage, but a bundle of state repressive measures that were used over a longer period.