Listen to the BBC The Why Factor PTSD podcast
Trauma has the unique ability to shatter lives, turning the world into a dark and unrecognizable place. For many years, I found myself lost in this darkness, struggling to piece together a life that had been broken beyond recognition. Living out of bags, having lost my teaching career, and grappling with undiagnosed PTSD, I was barely holding on. My family life had disintegrated, friendships had crumbled, and I found myself on the brink of suicide. This was a time when the trauma from the Asian Tsunami, compounded by the painful experiences of being misunderstood and dismissed by the NHS, had overwhelmed me completely.
But then, as if by some miracle, I found hope in the most unexpected place—a news segment on the BBC. It was there that I first encountered Dr. Jennifer Wild. Her words on the trauma faced by Chilean miners resonated so deeply that it felt like she was describing my life, my pain, and my struggle. This was the moment that ignited a wildfire of clarity in the chaos of my mind, and it was the catalyst that led me to reach out to her.
In this tribute, I want to share the profound impact Dr. Wild has had on my life. She was the first medical practitioner who truly believed my story, who validated my experiences, and who guided me through a transformative journey of recovery. This is more than just a book recommendation—it is an expression of gratitude to a remarkable individual who has dedicated her life to helping those like me find their way out of the darkness.
“…it felt like a bomb went off, shattering the darkness, by igniting a wildfire of clarity in the chaos of my mind.”
The Spiral
There are moments in life when everything feels like it’s falling apart, and the future seems like a disconnected nightmare not worth fighting for. For me, that moment came when I was living out of bags, having lost my teaching career, and grappling with undiagnosed PTSD. My family life had shattered, friendships had crumbled, and I was on the verge of suicide. The trauma I had endured was overwhelming.
The Initial Trauma
My struggle with PTSD began with the Asian Tsunami while I was on holiday in Thailand on Koh Phi Phi island. The devastation of the tsunami and the trauma from the search and rescue operations left deep emotional scars. This initial trauma was compounded when I returned to London. After five years of misdiagnosis by the NHS, the hidden trauma and lack of support culminated in horrific experiences at Charing Cross Hospital psych ward and Fulham Police Station. Where my references to trauma were belittled by doctors whose arrogance overpowered their empathy.
My resiliency had worked against me
My resiliency had worked against me since returning to London as everyone saw me as fine. People couldn’t see what I had seen during the tsunami and subsequent search and rescue efforts, and relive daily through flashbacks and intrusive thoughts. The doctors’ level of empathy failed them as they didn’t seem to believe I was even caught in the tsunami, let alone involved in the search and rescue efforts. Their disbelief and lack of empathy only deepened my trauma.
Dr. Jennifer Wild was the first medical practitioner who truly believed me. Her validation and understanding were pivotal. Because of her, I committed to her treatment with the same dedication I would have given to a dissertation.
A Turning Point
It was whilst watching the BBC News, that I first saw Dr. Jennifer Wild discussing the Chilean mining crisis. She talked about the trauma the miners might be experiencing and the long-term effects it could have on their mental health. As she listed the symptoms, it felt like a bomb went off, shattering the darkness, by igniting a wildfire of clarity in the chaos of my mind. Everything she described resonated with my own experiences. With in 5 minutes of the news segment ending, still in a state of shock, I conducted a “Hail Mary” Google search of her name. No one from the NHS had ever believed me and here was this lady on TV describing my life that no one could see and understand. If I hadn’t seen that news piece, I truly don’t believe I would be alive today.
Meeting Dr. Jennifer Wild
As a result of my desperate Google search, I managed to arrange a meeting with Dr. Jennifer Wild at her University College London office within a couple of days. When I met her, she conducted a thorough PTSD assessment and quickly understood the magnitude of my hidden trauma. She realized how my undiagnosed PTSD from the West London NHS had led to the breakdown of my relationships and career. Dr. Wild’s transformative therapy was the turning point I had needed.
Our sessions were challenging but incredibly rewarding. I respected her immensely as an academic and saw her as a guiding professor helping me with my thesis on life. I worked harder with her than I ever had during my Economics BA (Hons) & PGCE. Through her innovative approaches and unwavering support, I began to reclaim my life.
Recently, during one of our conversations, we shared a laugh when I admitted that I had no idea she had published a book, let alone several. This moment of genuine surprise highlighted the depth of our relationship—a mix of respect and gratitude. It is this same warmth and expertise that Dr. Wild brings to her latest book, “Be Extraordinary: 7 Key Skills to Transform Your Life From Ordinary to Extraordinary.”
Introducing “Be Extraordinary”
It is with immense gratitude and respect that I introduce you to Dr. Jennifer Wild’s book, “Be Extraordinary: 7 Key Skills to Transform Your Life From Ordinary to Extraordinary.” This book encapsulates the wisdom, compassion, and scientific rigor that Dr. Wild brought into my life and has the potential to change countless others.
Why “Be Extraordinary” is a Must-Read
“Be Extraordinary” is not just another self-help book. It is a life-changing guide that offers a practical and scientifically-backed formula for overcoming adversity and achieving greatness. Dr. Wild, through her extensive research and clinical experience, has identified seven key processes that distinguish those who thrive from those who merely survive. These processes include:
- Unwavering Belief: The belief in recovering against all odds.
- Goal-Driven Conviction: The commitment to reach one’s goals despite obstacles.
- Future-Focused Courage: The bravery to look forward and not dwell on the past.
- Memory Updating: The continuous process of revising outdated memories and self-concepts.
- Resilience Building: Techniques to enhance mental and emotional resilience.
- Optimistic Outlook: Cultivating a positive perspective even in challenging times.
- Support Networks: The importance of building and maintaining strong, supportive relationships.
Dr. Wild seamlessly links these processes to achievable transformations, offering real-life examples of individuals who have used these strategies to overcome astonishing adversity. Her book is a blend of inspiring stories and actionable advice, making it an essential read for anyone looking to transform their life.
The Impact of “Be Extraordinary”
The techniques and strategies outlined in “Be Extraordinary” are highly effective for managing and recovering from PTSD and other adversities. Many of these methods, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), memory updating, and resilience building, are evidence-based and have been proven to help individuals overcome trauma and achieve their goals. The book provides practical tools and exercises that readers can apply in their daily lives, making it a valuable resource for anyone seeking to improve their mental health and overall well-being.
Reviews and Praise
Dr. Wild’s book has received glowing reviews from both experts and readers alike. According to Hachette Australia, “Be Extraordinary” is described as a “road map for change that uses the lessons we can learn from survivors of trauma to make a dramatic difference in our own lives” (Hachette Australia). The British Psychological Society highlights the book’s practical approach to achieving an extraordinary life by kicking avoidance and embracing resilience (BPS).
Additional Resources
In addition to the book, Dr. Wild has developed and evaluated a science-informed resilience intervention for police, firefighters, paramedics, and search and rescue personnel, which is being rolled out across England (Transform Trauma). Her work in this area has been instrumental in helping those who face trauma in their line of work build resilience and lead extraordinary lives.
A Personal Call to Action
If you are looking for a guide to help you navigate life’s challenges and emerge extraordinary, “Be Extraordinary” is the book for you. Dr. Wild’s wisdom, compassion, and scientific rigor make this book a standout resource for anyone seeking to transform their life. Whether you are dealing with trauma, looking to improve your resilience, or simply wanting to achieve your fullest potential, this book offers the tools and inspiration you need.
As someone who has directly benefited from Dr. Wild’s expertise, I cannot recommend “Be Extraordinary” highly enough. This book is a gift to anyone seeking to rise above their circumstances and achieve greatness. Get your copy today and embark on a journey towards becoming extraordinary.
Be Extraordinary is available from
- WATERSTONES
Paperback www.waterstones.com - AMAZON UK
Paperback www.amazon.co.uk- Kindle www.amazon.co.uk
- AMAZON USA
Paperback www.amazon.com- Kindle www.amazon.com
Take the first step towards transforming your life and embracing the extraordinary.
This post is more than just a book recommendation; it is a heartfelt tribute to a remarkable individual who has had a profound impact on my life. Thank you, Dr. Jennifer Wild, for your unwavering support, your wisdom, and for writing a book that has the potential to change countless lives.
For more insights into my journey and the impact Dr. Wild has had on my life, you can read more on my blog:
- BBC The Why Factor PTSD Interview with Dr. Wild
- Why I Found Trauma-Focused CBT So Effective
- Surviving the Tsunami: My Struggle with PTSD
Dr. Wild’s guidance and support have been instrumental in my recovery and growth, and I am forever grateful for her presence in my life. Endless Respect.
It felt overwhelming to process the podcast’s 18 minutes of trauma.
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