Surviving the Shadows: A Journey of Hope into Post-Traumatic Stress

Given the thousands of soldiers returning physically and emotionally crippled from America's wars, the latest from the authors of Covert: My Years Infiltrating the Mob proves especially timely. After serving undercover with the Mafia, Delaney (a former New Jersey state trooper) realized that he was suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and the stigma, misunderstanding, and shame he endured inspired him to educate others. Here, he offers therapy ideas that incorporate physiology and psychology, and introduces groups working to help soldiers and law enforcement officers (two groups with high numbers of PTSD sufferers) cope with, and overcome, their difficulties. Delaney wants to change the definition of PTSD and help people understand that it is not a sign of weakness, but rather a normal physiological response to untenable amounts of stress. With this change of attitude, people will hopefully feel more comfortable seeking help and lives may even be saved. Delaney and Scheiber successfully balance scientific fact with personal testimonial and write with an empathetic, engaging tone. Though the book will be compelling for readers with personal connections to the military or law enforcement, even the most skeptical will want to know what can be done on the individual and national level to help PTSD sufferers. (Sept.)