VIMHS
VIMHS
Soldiers In The Arts – Confronting post traumatic stress through improv
Soldiers In The Arts – Confronting post traumatic stress through improv
Soldiers In The Arts – Confronting post traumatic stress through improv
Thursday 17th November 2022
Ryan Hawkyard's 'Soldiers in the Arts' uses improv to help veterans and their families confront PTSD. Discover how laughter aids healing.
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Get the buttons here!Healing Through Laughter: Veterans Confront PTSD with Improv
Post-traumatic stress is not black or white. There's a lot of variance in what it is and how it presents itself, and I think the message is there, but it seems to be the main catalyst is like: oh yeah, this person you know this one thing happened to them and they're never again.
Imagine facing the invisible wounds of war with a hearty laugh. That’s exactly what Ryan Hawkyard, a veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces, is doing with the 'Soldiers in the Arts' program. After 20 years of service and three tours in Afghanistan, Ryan found himself grappling with post-traumatic stress. A mental health professional suggested he try acting, and the benefits were immediate.
Now, as the coordinator of 'Soldiers in the Arts', Ryan is using improv workshops to help other veterans and their families tackle post-traumatic stress head-on. In this episode of 'Voices of Resilience', Ryan shares his journey from soldier to actor and explains how improv can be a powerful tool for healing. He describes the unique atmosphere of trust that these workshops cultivate, where participants can let their guard down and simply enjoy the moment.
It’s not just about acting; it’s about creating a space where veterans and their families can connect and support each other. Ryan also discusses the complexities of post-traumatic stress, noting that it affects everyone differently. He emphasizes the importance of understanding these nuances to provide better support for those affected. The episode also highlights an exciting project on the horizon: a Canadian adaptation of the UK play 'Soldier On'.
Ryan is eager to bring this play to Canada, offering a fresh perspective on the struggles and triumphs of veterans. If you’re curious about how improv can help heal the scars of war or interested in learning more about 'Soldiers in the Arts', this episode is a must-listen. It’s a testament to the power of creativity and community in overcoming life's toughest challenges.