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A powerful new documentary follows several Veterans and service members as they share their personal stories of transformation, hope and growth.
“Transformed by Trauma: Stories of Posttraumatic Growth” follows the experiences of Veterans, prisoners of war, service members and first responders as they recount their stories of survival to now thriving after their hardships. The stories offer inspiration and highlight the possibility of growth after trauma—known as Posttraumatic Growth (PTG).
One of the film’s compelling voices is Capt. Charlie Plumb, a Vietnam Veteran and former POW who was imprisoned for nearly six years at the infamous “Hanoi Hilton.”
“POWs are living proof of PTG,” said Plumb. “I survived nearly six years as a prisoner of war—what could challenge me more than that? We only get so many struggles in life, and it’s a terrible thing to waste any of them.”
The science of PTG shows that struggle can be a catalyst for profound growth and change. Instead of being diminished by trauma, individuals can emerge stronger and more authentic, embodying the best versions of themselves.
The film also challenges the current approach to mental health care, exploring both the frequency and impact of PTSD diagnoses.
“PTSD has become a catch-all diagnosis,” said Ken Falke, Navy Veteran and founder of Boulder Crest Foundation. “In our country, we’ve created a medical model and 500,000 people to treat it, but it doesn’t work.”
Josh Goldberg, CEO of Boulder Crest, added, “With the PTSD label, you’re told you have a permanent disorder, and the best you can do is focus on feeling less bad. We need to change that narrative because it’s literally killing people.”
Boulder Crest Foundation, a non-profit organization, has spent the past decade developing programs based on the science of PTG. Through peer-delivered training programs—like Warrior PATHH for Combat Veterans and service members—the organization has transformed the lives of more than 100,000 people.
“Our mission extends beyond just helping Veterans and first responders,” said Falke. “We’re working to change the way mental health care is approached in this country for all people with trauma histories. That’s a monumental task, but it’s necessary.”
Watch “Transformed By Trauma: Stories of Posttraumatic Growth.”
Learn more about the science of PTG, explore the online PTG Resource Center & Library.
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