Frontline Season 23 Episode 9 The Soldier's Heart

The Frontline Season 23 Episode 9, titled "The Soldier's Heart," explores the devastating impact of PTSD on American soldiers who have experienced combat. The show delves into the stories of several soldiers who have returned home from war with physical and mental scars.

The episode begins by introducing viewers to Sergeant First Class John Dale, who served as a medic in Iraq. Dale recounts a traumatic experience in which he witnessed a young Iraqi girl die in his arms. He explains that after returning home, he struggled with depression, anxiety, and nightmares. Despite seeking help, Dale felt as if his symptoms were not taken seriously. The show also shares the story of Lieutenant Colonel Bill Edwards, who was a helicopter pilot in Vietnam. Edwards describes the brutal violence he witnessed and participated in, which resulted in significant psychological trauma.

Throughout the episode, Frontline interviews mental health experts, military leaders, and veterans' advocates to understand the systemic issues that contribute to PTSD in soldiers. The show examines the military's practice of repeatedly deploying troops into combat zones, which can lead to soldiers experiencing multiple traumatic events. Additionally, the show explores the stigma surrounding seeking mental health services in the military, which can prevent soldiers from getting the help they need.

Frontline also sheds light on the difficulties veterans may face when trying to access medical care for PTSD. The show documents the struggles some veterans have experienced with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), where long wait times, inadequate staffing, and insufficient resources can lead to delays in accessing care or being denied services.

The episode also features discussions about the efficacy of various treatments for PTSD, such as talk therapy, medication, and alternative therapies like yoga and meditation. The show explores the challenges of treating PTSD, including the limited options available for patients and the stigma surrounding mental health in the military.

Frontline brings to light the troubling reality that veterans with PTSD are more likely to struggle with addiction, homelessness, and suicidal ideation. Through the stories of soldiers like Dale and Edwards, the show humanizes the impact of PTSD on individuals and their families.

In the end, "The Soldier's Heart" highlights the need for greater resources and support for veterans who experience PTSD. The show underscores that PTSD is a serious public health issue that requires a comprehensive and systemic response from policymakers, military leaders, and medical professionals.