In support of veterans, the Oprah Winfrey Network will be tackling an urgent issue for them – Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. PTSD is an anxiety disorder that can occur after you have been suffered a traumatic event. It is a very real problem in our country today…actually all around the world. On November 6th, OWN’s Our America with Lisa Ling will follow the stories of veterans who are living with PTSD in their special episode entitled “Invisible Wounds of War”.
“This episode about veterans with PTSD has been one of the most important stories I have had the privilege to tell,” said Lisa Ling. “My hope is that people who watch this show will have a better understanding of the struggles many veterans face when they come home from the frontlines, but that there is hope. I had an opportunity to see first-hand veterans who found their spirits again.”
Lisa will head to the National Veterans Crisis Line and listen in on some of the calls that come in from those in need. She will then head to New Mexico to introduce us to an innovative program that helps veterans and their families heal from the emotional trauma they have endured. To go a little deeper, Oprah.com has also created “Our America. Our Veterans. Our Thanks” which invites viewers to submit their personal videos or special messages of thanks for a veteran or soldier. The site will also include resources and information about PTSD for veterans and their families.
As a niece of veteran who has suffered for decades with PTSD, I can’t emphasis enough how important this episode is for everyone. This crisis isn’t one that solely effects our veterans, it impacts us all and we ALL need to care. It is important that everyone understands the impact that war has on our men and women. I came across a blog that gives one man’s attempt to try to explain what he is going through. Check it out here. The story is not so different than many of our veterans. We all need to understand so we can help. This episode is a great step in doing so. Our America with Lisa Ling “Invisible Wounds of War” premieres Sunday, November 6th at 10pm. Please watch and tell everyone you know. It is the least we can do.
To find OWN in your area, check the channel finder here.
How can I obtain a copy of “Invisible Wounds of War”? I live in Australia and am unable to get the OWN network. I am married to a veteran with PTSD. It has been more than 15 years since his time in service, and he still wakes up with the nightmares.
I am sorry to hear about your spouse. PTSD can be so hard on a family. I don’t have access to the full episode and would suggest that you contact the OWN Network with your request. Maybe if enough people ask, they will make it available. Otherwise check out the article I wrote about the actual episode…maybe something in it will help. I will also try to post some resources in the “Be Empowered” section of the site. My prayers are with you and your family.
[…] a look my previous article on “Invisible Wounds of War” that links to the “Our America. Our Veterans. Our Thanks” page on Oprah.com where you can leave […]
One of the most powerful shows I have ever seen. I cried and shook and felt such a pain in my heart the these men, women and families.
Please tell me how to get a copy of Lisa Ling’s “Our America Our Vets PTSD “.
I am a mother and mother-in -law who stands by to kids I love and watch their lives, marriage and
human spirits broken because they don’t understand what is happening. Harold Perez my son-in-law was discharged from the Army with full Military Benefits. Yes diagnoised PTSD. He was awarded a purple heart served 3 scenes in Iraq & his body full of shrapnel.
These kids need to see themselves in others like them to understand their lives. Please help me
and find how I can get a copy of this film.
Thanks
The episode was incredible! My suggestion would be to contact the OWN Network with your request. Maybe if enough people ask, they will make it available. Good luck!
Is there ANYWAY that OWN would consider making “Invisible Wounds of War” available for viewing on the OWN website? There are so very many veterans and their families that need to know about places like Angelfire and especially need to know that there are people who cared enough to put together such a powerful documentary. I have veteran friends who I’ve told about this show, but many of them don’t have cable. These veterans need some hope, and I believe this show provides that. If you could even just make it available on-line for a month, or make it available for sale to download, I think it could help so many.
I am an army wife, for now, and have been to the Angel Fire retreat. PTSD is not so simply treated. My husband stopped treatment for PTSD and has gotten worse since the retreat. PTSD effects the families and friends of soldiers, like a domino effect. It causes secondary PTSD that is so rarely noticed and often is shadowed by the soldier’s PTSD. Secondary PTSD clashes with the soldier’s PTSD eventually destroying the relationship……at least thats what happened with my marriage.