PTSD is a topic that comes up in many stories. However, almost all of them have a different description and that makes you wonder what this disorder really involves.The Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Fallacy by H. Nattanya Anderson is an excellent choice for understanding what PTSD is all about, as described by a person who has gone through it herself. This book destroys any pre conceived notions that a person might have regarding PTSD.
The author, at the very start of the book, calls out the ineffective and redundant methods used by psychologists to treat PTSD. She brings focus to the unfair treatment that the affected are given by those people who are supposed to help them recover. The author describes what she thinks is the cause of PTSD, and what realisation finally gives the person the motivation to start their lives anew. This book provides the step by step method of laying the foundation of life again.
It is revealed that there is no specific test for the diagnosis of PTSD. Most of what is known about the disorder are mere speculations and hypotheses by people who do not have any idea about what it is like to suffer from PTSD. Many people who have no choice but to depend on other bigger institutions for help, are often treated like guinea pigs, disregarding the effect a treatment might have on their health.
The thoughts of a person suffering from PTSD, which the author has written from her own experiences, provide an enlightening perspective of what the world seems like to people who have gone through experiences that change not only the way they see themselves, but also how they view life. It is obvious by the wide range of topics that the author covers that she has deeply researched the subject. From the different kinds of approaches on dealing with PTSD to psychometry to old myths, anyone can learns lot from this book. The different subjects dealt with by the author make you curious about them.
The most important point that the author puts forth is that even if you get good help, it is you yourself, who has to be willing to take steps towards recovery. Unlike how it is mentioned in many stories, recovery from PTSD is a long journey, and is not fixed by hugging someone you love.
The different topics mentioned in this book are not only applicable for those suffering from PTSD. In fact there are many points which a person can apply in his/ her life to make it better, or just to have a greater understanding of themselves. Author’s journey to achieving peace and mental health by herself with the help of books and other stuff like meditation and psychometry is something that can definitely be applied to a person’s life. The role of pet animals (specially, dogs) in recovering is also mentioned.
I would give this book 3 out of 4 stars. Though one of the better qualities of this book is the honesty of the author, at some points she may seem a little bit too critical. It is true that one can improve when he/ she helps themselves, but the author often mentions it as the only way to cure yourself and that help from ‘experts’ will definitely be detrimental. The book could also be better edited, with some part of chapter 11 repeated in chapter 12, along with other typos.
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who is either considering, or is already in therapy. Also, any individual who is interested in learning more about the Self will also enjoy this book.