In this article, the author recounts his experiences as a nurse in Vietnam, & his subsequent repression of these events because no one wanted to discuss the Vietnam conflict. This repression led to the development of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The psychological & behavioural responses to this disorder are outlined as are steps in recovery. The reader is cautioned to remember that PTSD is not a mental illness; it is a reaction to extreme stress. (11 refs.)