Fighters doing battle against the monster that is PTSD
An estimated five percent of Americans— more than thirteen million people—live with PTSD at any given time. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is the result of a psychiatric survival mechanism. When a person is thrust into traumatic circumstances, the brain is forced to adapt, rewiring itself in order to better cope with the situation. Once removed from the traumatic situation, these newly formed neural pathways remain, unseen. Though they may be invisible, they still have a massive impact on day-to-day life, causing disruptive memories, anxiety, and depression.
The Heroes
We’ll be following multiple fighters, including Army Veteran Gary Houle and others dealing with PTSD. The documentary will highlight their past and follow their struggles with PTSD, civilian life, and their recovery through Armored Combat. We will also be speaking with several fighters who suffer from PTSD as the result of assault or other past trauma, and who have found solace in the chaos of the ring.
The Enemy
New research has found that around fifty veterans die from suicide each day. Given casualty statistics from the wars the U.S. has fought during the past two decades, a veteran is twelve times more likely to die from suicide after the return home than they are from being killed in action.
Where We Are
Currently, Steel Soldier is halfway through the production stage. We’re seeking funding, and actively interviewing and meeting people in the veteran and armored combat communities. Please watch our sizzle (a trailer for a movie yet to be completed) and testimonial video to see why we are making this documentary. To stay up to date, follow the project on our social media pages.