Educational Media Reviews Online

Post-traumatic stress disorder has been a byproduct of war for its soldiers since wars began, although it’s been called different names over the years. The current conflict in Iraq has resulted in an estimated one in six returning veterans suffering from this sometimes lethal combination of depression, anxiety, anger and hyper vigilance. However, despite recent efforts to address the problem in veterans’ healthcare facilities, the stigma attached to any complaints of psychological stress within the military community prevents many soldiers and veterans from getting the help they need, as chronicled by this documentary focusing on the experiences of three Iraq War veterans with PTSD. The three very different stories of a college educated Marine platoon commander, an older veteran of numerous wars, and a young reservist fresh out of high school have a common thread in their feelings of isolation and depression following their return from Iraq, and the inability of family and friends to reach them despite their best efforts. One of the stories ends tragically with the suicide of the young veteran after repeated, desperate attempts to get help by the family. The others are luckier in eventually coming to terms with their psychological issues, but all provide a lesson in the need for a society to care for the “hidden wounds” of its soldiers. A good choice for psychology classes, support groups and veterans organizations.