The Counteroffensive with Tim Mak

The Counteroffensive with Tim Mak

Why cold, darkness worsen PTSD among ex-POWs

We explore the tragic, unusual link between cold and post traumatic stress. Amid blackouts, former POWs face a surge in flashbacks. Oleksii is waking up from nightmares for the first time in years.

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Mariana Lastovyria and Oleksandra Poda
Feb 04, 2026
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Editor’s note: The following article depicts scenes of violence and torture.

“I’ve started having bad dreams. I remember my punishment cell. It was consta…

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