Navy psychologist gives a voice to combat trauma

Heidi Kraft, PhD, a psychologist and former Navy lieutenant commander, was among those recognized for their accurate and empathetic portrayals of mental health issues in the media at the 2011 Voice Awards, co-sponsored by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, APA and numerous other mental health organizations.

Kraft received the Voice Award for Consumer Leadership for her 2007 book "Rule Number Two: Lessons I Learned at a Combat Hospital," which details the trauma that affects caregivers in combat situations. Kraft based her book on the nine years she spent as a U.S. Navy psychologist, including more than seven months at a remote air base in western Iraq.

"Heidi's honest and caring writing has encouraged those with PTSD to seek help and engage in recovery," said APA President Melba J.T. Vasquez, PhD, presenting the award to Kraft at the Aug. 24 event held at Paramount Studios in Hollywood, Calif. "Her advocacy has impacted sailors, Marines, caregivers and leaders alike to overcome the myths, misperceptions and stigma associated with mental health."

Voice awards also went to advocates for mental health consumers and services, as well as writers and producers for such acclaimed films as "The Fighter" and "The King's Speech," and to the television programs "Glee," "Grey's Anatomy," "Harry's Law," "Mad Men," "The Pacific," "Parenthood" and "Private Practice."

In addition, a special recognition award went to Ron Barber, chief of staff to Rep. Gabrielle Giffords (D-Ariz.), and Tucson, Ariz., Mayor Robert Walkup and his wife, Beth.

—R. Farberman