When the War Never Ends: The Voices of Military Members with PTSD and Their Families

by Leah Wizelman

The chances of service members developing PTSD after military-related traumas is, according to a U.S. study, at least 30 percent. The effects of PTSD can be devastating, ranging, for example, from distressing flashbacks, nightmares, sleep disorders, physical symptoms, irritability, aggressions, memory and concentration problems. These symptoms often cause severe impairment in all areas of life and may lead to despair and hopelessness. PTSD is neither a localized nor a temporary problem. Here, Leah Wizelman relates the true stories of service members from different service branches and ranks from the United States, Canada, Australia, and Germany, who were participants in various wars (Vietnam, Gulf war, Iraq, Afghanistan, Grenada) and peace missions (Kosovo, Bosnia, Croatia, Cambodia, Somalia, Cyprus, Haiti). They talk openly about their lives after trauma and share their fates with the reader. Spouses of affected military members also tell their stories. They talk about the challenges loved ones face when living with a partner with PTSD, how it affects their children, and how they manage to cope. As these stories show all too vividly, military-related PTSD has not been dealt with effectively or with enough empathy or sympathy. Those affected by PTSD will realize that they are not alone in their suffering, and others will gain insight into the realities of this challenging mental disorder.

176 pages, Hardcover

First published October 16, 2011

Reviews

[Lindsay · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was very interesting to read the stories of those suffering from PTSD after serving in the military. It was pretty amazing how so many different people, from different countries, serving at different times, and in different places can all have such similar stories of dealing with the aftermath. I really felt for all of these people.

[Lydia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book helps those of us who may not understand PTSD or the symptoms that soldiers returning from war have. The book shares stories from soldiers and their families ranging from Vietnam to now. Heart wrenching for what they have gone through and still go through as they fight for their countries. Different countries not just US is included. I would recommend this book to all.

[Steve]

I decided that it would be hard for me to rate this because of the subject matter. I will say that it is a must read for anyone wanting to understand the complexity of PTSD and its myriad of effects. I am glad that I read it because my wife read it also.