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The article describes a case when exploring archival investigation file of the repressed and executed relative is accompanied by the emergence of delayed posttraumatic stress disorder. Feelings that emerged during contact with the investigation file: fear, resentment and confusion, shame, the desire to keep a secret are disscussed. The difference between experiences of relatives of the Gulag victims and relatives of victims of other historical events or disasters is examined. The article considers protective and adaptive mechanisms that help to overcome psychological trauma.