Fresh, thoughtful journalism and creative works produced by students
of the School of Art, Communication and English at the University of Sydney.

Subscribe
Commentary

Podcast: Mary Hakimi talks with Vietnam Veteran Michael Smart

Photograph of Michael Smart
Michael Smart photograph by Mary Hakimi

Michael Smart is a 68-year-old Vietnam Veteran who lives in Greystanes, with his wife Judy. I’ve known Michael for over five years as a patient at the medical centre I used to work at, but I never knew that he is still battling posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression, 45 years after returning to Australia from the Vietnam War.

Michael opened up about the effects the war had on him, his experience getting help from the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) and what treatment has been like so far.

Music: Northern Lights by Chris Haugen

Speakers by order: Mary Hakimi, Michael Smart, Ken Foster OAM JP, Dr. Brian O’Toole

Previous article
The Annika Foundation: supporting research into adolescent depression
Next article
Sydney’s lockout laws: four years on

Michael opened up about the effects the war had on him, his experience getting help from the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) and what treatment has been like so far.

By

Mary Hakimi
Mary Hakimi
Mary Hakimi is a 24-year-old media professional and postgraduate student with a passion for social and digital media. She loves good coffee, travelling, ‘A song of ice and fire’ by George R.R. Martin and beach days. Contact: mhak0122@uni.sydney.edu.au

Want fresh, thoughtful journalism in your inbox? Subscribe to Salience.

Salience showcases fresh, thoughtful journalism and creative works produced by students of the School of Art, Communication and English at the University of Sydney. Salience reflects the work of a globally oriented and engaged student body, with strong international student participation.

Subscribe to Salience

Find Us

John Woolley Building A20
University of Sydney NSW 2006