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Post-traumatic stress disorder

Globe and Mail Update

Latest comment posted at 1:41 PM EDT 29/01/08

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  1. sue allen from Toronto, Canada writes: Dear Ms Bodkin I heard you interviewed on CBC radio in the latter part of 07. I was driving back to work from an out of town meeting. I cried as I drove, listening to your story. I wanted to reach out to you at that time because I wanted you to know I was listening, that you had company. I felt at the time that I was part of a bigger group being drawn in by your words, your honesty and experiences. While I've never been to Africa and can't imagine what you have seen, I can see and hear you and want to offer my heart felt thanks for the sacrifices you have made, especially in the names of the most vulnerable--the women and children you spoke of. I am passionate about violence against women of all ages and I have worked in the area of skilled trades for over 25 years. Politically, these have been and continue to be, two of my main focuses. And while my work may seem miles, even a universe removed from what you have seen, I want to remind you that many of us struggle to make sense of the human experience--every day, the world over and at the same time, I hear quite clearly and understand from my privileged place, why your experience is unique. The work you have chosen is so difficult and yet I'm sure you must feel like it chose you. I believe that continuing to share your experience, to speak about it, write about it, cry about it...will help you on your long road to healing. A dear friend once said, 'That's the thing about healing, we get to make it up as we go.' Be gentle with yourself. And finally, please remember whether it be Africa or closer to home, that for the people who have been lucky enough to hear your story, I'm sure you have inspired folk to change, to feel, or to take action, for something, somewhere. Don't forget that. The world is a better place for your work. You are not alone, even though, ultimately, we all are. Thank you for bearing this. Sue Allen Toronto
  2. Gam Gam from Ottawa, Canada writes: I have battled depression after many years of work in African conflict zones.
    It has taken me some time to get to where I am today, but I have come to believe that although I still sometimes feel that I failed Africa, Africans -- with their joy, energy and creativity -- have changed me. For the better. I can help share that with those around me, including my family and friends.
    Any job that involves chasing disaster is an obvious curse but also a secret treasure. I still suffer nightmares on occasion, but also the waking realization of how truly lucky I am. Whether I am in Africa or Canada, nature, music and family are joys that I am able to experience in bolder, sharper relief than I believe I would have otherwise.
    Ms. Bodkin has given a wonderful gift to all of us. I applaud her for having the courage to share the turmoil she has experienced in Africa and in herself. Some Canadians will turn away in discomfort, thinking 'this has nothing to do with me,' but a few may go away changed, or decide to look for whatever will change the way they live. And there will be others still for whom Ms. Bodkin's experiences will seem all too familiar. I am one of those and I would like to say 'thank you.'
  3. George Hall from Canada writes: I think it is wonderful and I greatly admire the work you are doing
  4. michael parker from waterloo, Canada writes: Waterloo Regional Police Services - and our community- is truly lucky to have you in our community Debbie. Your work overseas- and your willingness to continue to speak out in the face of alarming indifference from those who could make a difference- is beyond the usual adjectives, except to say it is appreciated by those near and far. In solidarity, michael p.
  5. Bert Russell Paradox, BC from Canada writes:
    You have a great heart Debbie Bodkin and your effort above and beyond will inspire others. Thank you.
  6. John Williams from Ajax, Canada writes: Another reason we tend to ignore things like Darfur is that with PTSD, we tend to practice AVOIDANCE of TRIGGERS. So anything that Triggers the terrible pain from PTSD, we tend to avoid thinking about.

    As far as treatment, CBT Cognitive Therapy has some options. IRRT, Imagery Rescripting and Reprocessing Therapy also has some techniques. On a personal level, the person can go inside their own mind and begin to modify the images, and resolve them.

    But there is no quick-fix for PTSD, so be cautious about trauma exposure, if you can.

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