Shock Waves

September 13, 2010
Of those affected by trauma, research shows that 8% of men and 20% of women could develop post-traumatic stress disorder. Orange (Sing Your Own Song) has personal experience with her topic; her husband, a Vietnam veteran, was diagnosed with PTSD after its symptoms had impacted their lives for years. Using contributor stories, the author illustrates the varied paths PTSD can take and guides readers through the journey to recovery, "a life-long process that improves all aspects of ourselves: body, mind, and spirit." Orange believes that choice plays a major role in recovery. "Each day we can decide to blame trauma or our loved one for our actions and feelings or we can take responsibility for our own life and growth." Ways of diagnosing PTSD and information on the warning signs of suicide, trauma responses, and the affect of trauma on loved ones are also discussed, as are ways to honor grief, find a therapist, provide self-care, rebuild a life, find joy, and parent while dealing with PTSD. Caregivers or anyone impacted by trauma will likely feel that Orange is on their side and respond well to her calls to seek "progress, not perfection."