“I don’t wanna talk about it” was a phrase commonly heard at the Veterans Writing and Journaling workshop on March 23rd at The Commons in Toledo, and rightfully so for many veterans, especially Vietnam vets.
Speaker Leslie Mestrow, writer and public relations consultant, presented some techniques she developed to open the mind and release the thoughts on paper. The technique of translating thoughts to words and describing those thoughts through journaling have proven to be an important tool for those suffering from PTSD.
But as one Vietnam vet ardently put it “I don’t wanna talk about it. A lot of us men don’t wanna talk about it.” Many of these veterans have deeply imbedded memories that have resulted in expressing their rage, fears and disillusionment to another level. Their memories weigh heavy.
Journaling is a tool they can use to help to them deal with some of the inner “demons” that have been haunting for a long time. Our goal with this meeting was to help them connect to another form of releasing of emotion. As journaling is a very personal experience, some vets expressed interest in writing for personal endeavors.
Everyone who attended left the meeting armed with notebooks, pens and a simple guide to get started. It was also discussed that another meeting to explore writing and journaling further may be considered.
