Watch Is Anybody Listening?

Is Anybody Listening? is a documentary film released in 2014 that revolves around post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and the effects it has on members of the military, especially women. The film delves into the stories of American servicewomen who suffer from PTSD due to their service in the military and the difficulties they face when trying to seek help for their condition.

The film is anchored by Paula J. Caplan, a psychologist who has been working with veterans for over 25 years. Caplan shares her opinions throughout the movie about the flaws and insufficiencies of the current mental health care system within the military.

Is Anybody Listening? initially showcases a personal testimony from Isaac Pope, who served in World War II as a Tuskegee Airman. Pope recounts the harsh fight against racism and how his experiences, along with many others, led to PTSD. This is followed by various interviews with other servicewomen who recount their traumatic experiences while deployed, suffering from PTSD, and navigating the bureaucracy involved in getting help.

One of the most powerful moments in the film is when Caplan explains how PTSD is stigmatized due to the military's self-inflicted image of being tough and strong, and any indication of mental distress is considered a weakness. This attitude is especially hard on female service members, as men are the majority in the military and women are still fighting for acceptance and equality. Many feel the pressure to suppress what they are going through for fear of being seen as weak or distrusted by their fellow soldiers.

Additionally, the movie looks at the stigma that exists within the mental health profession where psychiatrists often label these women as "crazy" or "hysterical," due to the belief that military service should not impact one’s mental stability. Caplan quickly argues against this notion, stating that PTSD is a natural response to traumatic events and an expected reaction, instead of a pathology or a character flaw.

Is Anybody Listening? also features various interviews with physicians, psychologists and clinicians, who share their experiences and perspective on the issue of PTSD. The film touches upon issues like polypharmacy, use of medication and inadequate counseling being offered to the veterans in the USA.

The documentary humanizes PTSD and destroys the stigma that surrounds it, making the audience more mindful and empathetic about the issue. After a significant project in Iraq known as “Lioness”, we learn more about how the military is recognizing PTSD nowadays by identifying what psychologically impacts a person, and thereby updating its protocols for treatment - though this is not enough.

The film, however, ends on a hopeful note, with the veterans shown to be overcoming the challenges of PTSD and their journeys towards recovery. The audience is also left with a sense of purpose as several organizations aiding veterans are highlighted as Caplan stresses on looking at PTSD in the right light.

Overall, Is Anybody Listening? is a well-crafted and well-researched documentary that offers meaningful insights into the struggles of servicewomen and veterans. It offers valuable information and a de-stigmatized outlook on PTSD, underscoring the poignant need to understand mental health issues through a broader lens. This movie is a must-watch for anyone looking to gain a better perspective and understanding towards PTSD and how it affects people.

Is Anybody Listening? is a 2014 independent film movie with a runtime of 54 minutes.