"Few soldiers come back from war without terrible images and events in their head," Dr. Fortunato said. Many "suck it up and soldier on" in the combat theater because they have no choice. But when they return home, these issues can percolate to the surface as nightmares, flashbacks and other problems.

Fortunato's program (Warrior R & R Center) uses "rehearsal therapy" to help participants confront their most painful memories and experiences. "The soldier tells the story, as painful as it is, over and over until you've emptied it of its emotional punch," he said. "They are never going to forget the story, but it doesn't have to have the grip on their guts that it did before."[link]

I will be opening a page on my Website that will introduce some of our Expressive Art Pictures by our Warriors returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. I have received their permission to post them and thank them for allowing me to display their creative contributions. 15-Minute StressOut Program Webpage.

This picture, on the front page of my website, was drawn by Robert Peek today in Nancy Schwartz's, Expressive Arts Class, in our Warrior Restoration and Resilience Center, Wm. Beaumont Army Medical Center, Ft. Bliss, TX.

Rob is a remarkable artist, great human being, and professional soldier. He was seriously wounded while serving in Iraq. I have known this Service Member for several months and am honored to be part of his treatment team. Please feel free to comment and I will pass on your notes to our soldiers.

Jerry  More >