ABSTRACT
This chapter provides an overview of the impact of the Vietnam War on combatants, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and central elements in postwar healing from being exposed to war trauma. It examines the incidence and prevalence of PTSD among Vietnam veterans, several profound myths about the impact of war and trauma—and the corresponding realities, and methods that combatants utilize to survive war trauma—and the impact of such survival modes after returning home. Also, there is a description of PTSD symptoms, warning signs and common triggers that can precipitate negative reactions. Finally, there is a discussion of the two unique characteristics of being in war that have a profound impact on postwar healing, and the essential elements involved in healing from war experiences—to include the vital role of the veterans’ relationship with their country and major institutions.
