The Hidden War

Main Themes and Topics

"The Hidden War" by Constance Louie-Handelman, Ph.D., delves into the psychological battles faced by soldiers stationed at a forward operating base in Kandahar, Afghanistan. The book addresses critical issues such as PTSD, anxiety, depression, and the hidden emotional struggles that service members endure alongside their physical combat duties. Dr. Louie-Handelman emphasizes the complexity of these invisible wounds, detailing how external battlefield encounters are compounded by significant personal and domestic challenges faced by the soldiers. The author introduces Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) as a pivotal method in treating these psychological issues, presenting it as an innovative approach that merges cognitive therapy with acupressure.

Writing Style and Tone

Dr. Louie-Handelman employs a lucid and compelling narrative to convey her experiences and insights. Her writing is characterized by clarity and empathy, making complex psychological topics accessible to a broad readership. The tone of the book is deeply empathetic and compassionate, reflecting her concern for the soldiers' well-being. Her firsthand accounts provide a vivid glimpse into the challenging environment of a war zone, while maintaining an optimistic perspective on the efficacy of unconventional therapeutic techniques like EFT in offering relief and hope to those she served.

Brief Summary

"The Hidden War" narrates the journey of Dr. Constance Louie-Handelman, a psychologist who joined the US Army at the age of 56, driven by a determination to address the high incidence of PTSD and mental health issues among service members. Stationed in Kandahar, she faced a multitude of challenges including scarcity of resources and the transient nature of military assignments, which afforded her limited time with each patient. The book details her innovative use of Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) to help soldiers cope with trauma and emotional distress, highlighting numerous case studies of successful interventions that underscore the profound impact of her work.