Psychiatry, Politics and PTSD: Breaking Down.

This book review examines "Psychiatry, Politics and PTSD: Breaking Down" by Janet Haaken, which delves into the origins and development of the PTSD diagnosis. The book explores how PTSD is used to assist trauma victims but also limits resources and perpetuates a conflict between a neurobiological and psychosocial view of the mind. Haaken argues that while PTSD can be progressive in recognizing sociopolitical problems, it can also be regressive in denying responsibility for societal trauma and limiting access to resources. The review discusses the complexities and implications of the PTSD diagnosis, including its impact on resource allocation, the distinction between abnormal response and abnormal situations, and its use within the American criminal justice system. It also explores the somatic implications of trauma and challenges in assessing disability claims related to PTSD. The author questions whether the diagnosis of PTSD allows society to overlook the underlying political causes of trauma and emphasizes the role of storytelling in healing. The text acknowledges the need for further research on the intersection of race and military service in understanding complex trauma. Overall, the book provides a comprehensive examination of the PTSD diagnosis and its implications for social change. [Extracted from the article]