What do you think?
Rate this book
The Invisible Machine
The world has long misunderstood trauma. Now, leading experts in the field have a radical new understanding of post-traumatic stress . . . and a surprising new treatment to reverse it could have profound implications for medicine, mental health, and society.
Despite its prevalence, post-traumatic stress, PTSD, is often seen as an unbeatable lifelong mental disorder. However, top trauma doctors and neuroscientists now understand that the result of trauma is not a disorder, but rather a physical injury—and while invisible to the naked eye, the post-traumatic stress injury (PTSI) can now be seen on a scan. Most importantly, the effects of PTSI are reversible.
Meet Dr. Eugene Lipov. His research and partnerships have led to an amazing discovery that all trauma has at its root a single piece of human hardware: the sympathetic nervous system, controlling the fight-or-flight response. Anyone who has endured trauma, including long-term microdoses of emotional stress, can have this injury. Dr. Lipov has pioneered a safe, 15-minute procedure that reverses the injury, relieving mild to extreme symptoms of PTSI—irritability, hypervigilance, anxiety, insomnia, and more—for survivors to combat soldiers to the everyday person.
Weaving hard science with moving human stories, The Invisible Machine reveals how this treatment was developed. It also tells the incredible story of the unlikely team, including the doctor, an artist, Special Forces leadership, and a sheriff, who are working together to change our understanding of post-traumatic stress and why it matters to society.
Coauthored by artist and innovator Jamie Mustard and in collaboration with writer Holly Lorincz, The Invisible Machine weaves hard science with moving stories of warriors, prisoners, and ordinary people to provide a stark new understanding of the human condition. The implications for a better, pain-free world are astounding—and that world could be nearer than we think.
Despite its prevalence, post-traumatic stress, PTSD, is often seen as an unbeatable lifelong mental disorder. However, top trauma doctors and neuroscientists now understand that the result of trauma is not a disorder, but rather a physical injury—and while invisible to the naked eye, the post-traumatic stress injury (PTSI) can now be seen on a scan. Most importantly, the effects of PTSI are reversible.
Meet Dr. Eugene Lipov. His research and partnerships have led to an amazing discovery that all trauma has at its root a single piece of human hardware: the sympathetic nervous system, controlling the fight-or-flight response. Anyone who has endured trauma, including long-term microdoses of emotional stress, can have this injury. Dr. Lipov has pioneered a safe, 15-minute procedure that reverses the injury, relieving mild to extreme symptoms of PTSI—irritability, hypervigilance, anxiety, insomnia, and more—for survivors to combat soldiers to the everyday person.
Weaving hard science with moving human stories, The Invisible Machine reveals how this treatment was developed. It also tells the incredible story of the unlikely team, including the doctor, an artist, Special Forces leadership, and a sheriff, who are working together to change our understanding of post-traumatic stress and why it matters to society.
Coauthored by artist and innovator Jamie Mustard and in collaboration with writer Holly Lorincz, The Invisible Machine weaves hard science with moving stories of warriors, prisoners, and ordinary people to provide a stark new understanding of the human condition. The implications for a better, pain-free world are astounding—and that world could be nearer than we think.
288 pages, Hardcover
Published April 11, 2023
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
March 20, 2023
This book needed more science and less of Jamie’s story. Not aiming to be rude or invalidate Jamie but the personal narrative did not work in this book for me. The dialog with his therapist was just really strange. I would have preferred reading more about a variety of patients and Dr Lipov than a majority about one patient.
I had no knowledge of this procedure going into the book and I was intrigued by the possible uses for it.
I had no knowledge of this procedure going into the book and I was intrigued by the possible uses for it.
April 20, 2023
When you break your leg, no one sends you to physical therapy without first setting the bone and making sure it heals correctly. So, why is it that, when we talk about treating mental illness, we don’t think about the underlying PHYSIOLOGY of the human body––and if that physiology is injured, wouldn’t we first need to repair the injury before we do therapy?
In The Invisible Machine, Jamie Mustard and Eugene Lipov, MD are reframing how we think about, and talk about, Trauma and mental illness; the common symptoms of Trauma: Anxiety, Hyper-vigilance or Hyperarousal, Hair-Trigger, a constant Sense of Doom, mild Paranoia, Lack of Sleep, and in extreme cases suicidal and homicidal ideation, each of those in turn, ultimate flight and ultimate fight, are the result of a physical injury to the nervous system; one that you can actually see on an fMRI.
Trauma and "mental illness" carry a lot of stigma. When you encounter someone who has been traumatised, a person using substances to self-regulate, a bullied teenager with distant and dismissive parents, a veteran, an assault victim, or the incarcerated, because the underlying biology is the same and it knows no class, or race, or gender, all of these people are experiencing the exact same physical injury to the nervous system.
This is not only a profound revelation for science, it's a unifying revelation for Humanity especially in these divisive times.
What if that physical injury can be reset?
The Invisible Machine explores the social implications of this “Dual-Sympathetic Reset” and the science behind it. Whereas The Body Keeps the Score brought the somatic costs of Trauma to the masses, The Invisible Machine, brings the notion that Trauma is a universal binder that transcends all our human differences; and it can be reset for everyone.
The stories in this book stay with me, from a Delta Force Operator on the Mission to capture Saddam Hussein, to Special Forces Green Berets deployed too long in Afghanistan, to first responders on the streets of LA, to a Black female sheriff in the American South who is working to change the way we regard impulse crime (it's a brain health issue!), to an artist recovering from terminal cancer, to a man incarcerated for 27 years, to an average American wife and mother, to a Ukrainian-born Anaesthesiologist turned miracle-man, this book has more to say about our common humanity than the existential anomie of these divisive times. If we can see beyond the petty differences, to the common trauma behind the eyes of people who we think are so different from us, knowing that trauma can be reset, maybe we can come together again.
In The Invisible Machine, Jamie Mustard and Eugene Lipov, MD are reframing how we think about, and talk about, Trauma and mental illness; the common symptoms of Trauma: Anxiety, Hyper-vigilance or Hyperarousal, Hair-Trigger, a constant Sense of Doom, mild Paranoia, Lack of Sleep, and in extreme cases suicidal and homicidal ideation, each of those in turn, ultimate flight and ultimate fight, are the result of a physical injury to the nervous system; one that you can actually see on an fMRI.
Trauma and "mental illness" carry a lot of stigma. When you encounter someone who has been traumatised, a person using substances to self-regulate, a bullied teenager with distant and dismissive parents, a veteran, an assault victim, or the incarcerated, because the underlying biology is the same and it knows no class, or race, or gender, all of these people are experiencing the exact same physical injury to the nervous system.
This is not only a profound revelation for science, it's a unifying revelation for Humanity especially in these divisive times.
What if that physical injury can be reset?
The Invisible Machine explores the social implications of this “Dual-Sympathetic Reset” and the science behind it. Whereas The Body Keeps the Score brought the somatic costs of Trauma to the masses, The Invisible Machine, brings the notion that Trauma is a universal binder that transcends all our human differences; and it can be reset for everyone.
The stories in this book stay with me, from a Delta Force Operator on the Mission to capture Saddam Hussein, to Special Forces Green Berets deployed too long in Afghanistan, to first responders on the streets of LA, to a Black female sheriff in the American South who is working to change the way we regard impulse crime (it's a brain health issue!), to an artist recovering from terminal cancer, to a man incarcerated for 27 years, to an average American wife and mother, to a Ukrainian-born Anaesthesiologist turned miracle-man, this book has more to say about our common humanity than the existential anomie of these divisive times. If we can see beyond the petty differences, to the common trauma behind the eyes of people who we think are so different from us, knowing that trauma can be reset, maybe we can come together again.
September 21, 2023
A must read for everyone
I stumbled onto this book while researching ketamine therapy. The stories and results of the treatment for PTSD by a pain blocker injected at very specific points sounds like magic, which why so many stories about people undergoing treatment with remarkable results are included. PTSD or PTSI ( "I" for injury rather than disorder) can happen to ANYONE, to different degrees to be certain, but it is not a condition reserved for military and first responders.
I stumbled onto this book while researching ketamine therapy. The stories and results of the treatment for PTSD by a pain blocker injected at very specific points sounds like magic, which why so many stories about people undergoing treatment with remarkable results are included. PTSD or PTSI ( "I" for injury rather than disorder) can happen to ANYONE, to different degrees to be certain, but it is not a condition reserved for military and first responders.
December 14, 2023
While there were some interesting aspects to this book, the one-sided nature of the content meant that it was impossible not to be sceptical of the claims.
The arguments for treating PTSD as an injury rather than a disorder were convincing enough for me to change how I view the affliction. I was even on board with how they suggested that far more people probably live with it than just those exposed to war and natural disasters.
Whether the touted procedure to 'reset' the source of the injury is as effective as described was far harder to deduce. The physiological explanation sounded dubious, although not outside the realm of plausibility. My bigger qualm with the book was that at least half of it was dedicated to anecdotes from people who had the procedure and claimed it did what was promised. Hardly the most convincing argument from a scientific standpoint, but I guess it is effective for people who are struggling with the injury and are looking for a 'cure'.
So as an introduction to the procedure and a good overview of the problem (PTSD, or PTSI, as the authors refer to it), it did a good job. As for being a convincing medical and scientific source of information, it unfortunately failed. I'd definitely look for other sources before deciding on the proposed treatment, but it's nonetheless useful to know about its existence, hence the 3 stars.
The arguments for treating PTSD as an injury rather than a disorder were convincing enough for me to change how I view the affliction. I was even on board with how they suggested that far more people probably live with it than just those exposed to war and natural disasters.
Whether the touted procedure to 'reset' the source of the injury is as effective as described was far harder to deduce. The physiological explanation sounded dubious, although not outside the realm of plausibility. My bigger qualm with the book was that at least half of it was dedicated to anecdotes from people who had the procedure and claimed it did what was promised. Hardly the most convincing argument from a scientific standpoint, but I guess it is effective for people who are struggling with the injury and are looking for a 'cure'.
So as an introduction to the procedure and a good overview of the problem (PTSD, or PTSI, as the authors refer to it), it did a good job. As for being a convincing medical and scientific source of information, it unfortunately failed. I'd definitely look for other sources before deciding on the proposed treatment, but it's nonetheless useful to know about its existence, hence the 3 stars.
March 25, 2023
This book offers hope to people suffering from the aftermath of trauma everywhere, but not in the way I expected. It opens up in the introduction of the book describing a revolutionary new procedure called DSR (Dual System Reset) which has been shown to help heal symptoms related to getting stuck in fight or flight. The book is so compelling, I’m researching the procedure in more depth now. One of the struggles of surviving trauma is that in order to do the emotional and mental work needed to heal, you must defer to the needs of the nervous system at any given time. When the nervous system gets agitated, you must stop and resource it or risk traumatizing yourself further. It feels like you’re fighting two unique battles at the same time and if you ignore one to fight the other, you lose all the ground you might have gained… it’s a very slow go, and it often feels overwhelming, but the idea that the DSR could actually reset the nervous system - it allows you to the capacity to to focus on only one adversary — it gives hope. This book offers so much hope. Not a get out of jail free card, the mental and emotional work has to be done. But if it works, this procedure offers a chance at a quicker path to healing.
As a book, I was a little confused at the purpose of the work… it’s not a history of the procedure; it’s not a memoir of the doctor; there are so many players in the story that it sometimes gets confusing. The intent seems to be to bring awareness of the procedure and to convince people they need it. I think it does those things, but if I had a critique, it might have done better to narrow the scope. In many places throughout, I felt like this is a sales pitch disguised as a book. I am definitely in the target audience, but I’ve never read a book that devoted so much energy into trying to compel people to get a medical treatment.
I think, had I known about this treatment before reading the book, I’d have only wanted to read it if I needed convincing. The book is very convincing.
A big thank you to BenBella Books and NetGalley for the advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
As a book, I was a little confused at the purpose of the work… it’s not a history of the procedure; it’s not a memoir of the doctor; there are so many players in the story that it sometimes gets confusing. The intent seems to be to bring awareness of the procedure and to convince people they need it. I think it does those things, but if I had a critique, it might have done better to narrow the scope. In many places throughout, I felt like this is a sales pitch disguised as a book. I am definitely in the target audience, but I’ve never read a book that devoted so much energy into trying to compel people to get a medical treatment.
I think, had I known about this treatment before reading the book, I’d have only wanted to read it if I needed convincing. The book is very convincing.
A big thank you to BenBella Books and NetGalley for the advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 22, 2023
“Trauma no longer needs to ruin lives.”
Wow. I found myself saying this many times as I was reading The Invisible Machine because I was so impressed with the research and treatment. The information pertaining to post-traumatic stress was provided in a way that was easy to read, while still being incredibly informative. The patient testimonials were incredibly encouraging as well.
I love the wide range of research being done from military, those in the criminal justice system, abuse survivors and also those with low-level long term trauma. The research truly speaks for itself.
The work being done by Dr. Lipov is remarkable. I was shocked to find how effective the DSR procedure is and how drastically it can improve the quality of life for those with post traumatic stress injuries. What he is doing will change the lives of so many and I hope that DSR becomes even more accessible to those in need in the years to come.
10/10 I recommend this for anyone who is interested in mental health, psychology, trauma and PTSD/PTSI research.
Wow. I found myself saying this many times as I was reading The Invisible Machine because I was so impressed with the research and treatment. The information pertaining to post-traumatic stress was provided in a way that was easy to read, while still being incredibly informative. The patient testimonials were incredibly encouraging as well.
I love the wide range of research being done from military, those in the criminal justice system, abuse survivors and also those with low-level long term trauma. The research truly speaks for itself.
The work being done by Dr. Lipov is remarkable. I was shocked to find how effective the DSR procedure is and how drastically it can improve the quality of life for those with post traumatic stress injuries. What he is doing will change the lives of so many and I hope that DSR becomes even more accessible to those in need in the years to come.
10/10 I recommend this for anyone who is interested in mental health, psychology, trauma and PTSD/PTSI research.
October 11, 2023
This book presents and advocates for a reconsideration of PTSD as an injury to the autonomic nervous system, not a disorder. Anesthesiologist Eugene Lipov was led through personal experience and clinical observation to use a stellate ganglion block as a treatment for post-traumatic stress. His procedure has evolved into the "dual sympathetic reset" by which 4 injections of standard anesthetic are made adjacent to the stellate ganglia and the superior cervical ganglia bilaterally. The theory is that the anesthetic serves to disrupt the overactivity of the sympathetic nervous system and the formation of nerve sprouting that cycles this overactivity in the brain. It appears to have a direct and measurable (according to SPECT and soon fMRI studies) effect on the pattern of activity in the central nervous system.
The book outlines the Lipov's journey in the development of this treatment and the synchronous way that co-author Jamie Mustard first experienced and then helped network through American military and trauma researchers to get the word out.
*Not a cure* but a potent tool in the treatment of chronic post-traumatic stress.
The book outlines the Lipov's journey in the development of this treatment and the synchronous way that co-author Jamie Mustard first experienced and then helped network through American military and trauma researchers to get the word out.
*Not a cure* but a potent tool in the treatment of chronic post-traumatic stress.
July 16, 2023
As someone who has dealt with panic and anxiety all my life, I was lucky enough to find this book thru a podcast (Lucas Rockwood, episode from May 31, 2023 'The Science of Trauma Recovery') with one of the authors; Jamie Mustard. I heard it at the right time and ordered the book immediately and the saying 'they wrote this book for me' could not have been truer in my case. I read The Invisible Machine in one day and it was a godsend as it helped me out of a current state of anxiety and intrigued me so much that I began to research having the DSR. I decided to reach out to Jamie and he got back to me within 5 minutes. We then spoke on the phone for 45 minutes and with his help, I am scheduled to have the DSR treatment this week with Dr. Lipov. I am so grateful for this incredible book and the caring people who wrote it along with the hero's who shared their personal stories. My advice? get the book - reading it alone will change your life!
May 3, 2023
Amazing Medical Breakthrough !
Beyond 5 Stars as it guides us through Dr. Eugene’s journey with the guiding help of Jamie. I applaud you both!
I could not put The Invisible Machine down! Why? Because it is without a doubt a Game-Changer and a Life-Saver.
Please read it, study up on PTSI and DSR, get the facts and start sharing, thus saving lives and making the world a better place.
I’ve already made a visit to Stella Center Chicago and was 100% impressed with Dr. Eugene and his staff.
And more importantly, The Results!
A Slice of Heaven on Earth for those who who wish.
Beyond 5 Stars as it guides us through Dr. Eugene’s journey with the guiding help of Jamie. I applaud you both!
I could not put The Invisible Machine down! Why? Because it is without a doubt a Game-Changer and a Life-Saver.
Please read it, study up on PTSI and DSR, get the facts and start sharing, thus saving lives and making the world a better place.
I’ve already made a visit to Stella Center Chicago and was 100% impressed with Dr. Eugene and his staff.
And more importantly, The Results!
A Slice of Heaven on Earth for those who who wish.
April 19, 2023
This book was one of the most interesting books I've read about trauma. I'm extremely intrigued and hopeful about the impact this will have on people who struggle with addiction and childhood trauma. It makes so much sense.
August 24, 2023
There are some interesting things to glean from this book, but largely it comes off as a sales pitch for a specific treatment. The treatment may be valid, but the thickness with which this book pitched this single treatment made it feel more like an infomercial than a book.
March 2, 2024
I'm so grateful to Dr Lipov and Jamie Mustard. My trauma left me injured, not crazy. Upon reading it, it made so much sense to me after 20 yrs of chronic pain and a lifetime of depression and anxiety. I am getting the treatment and it's helped already.
This book is amazing.
This book is amazing.
August 25, 2024
Outside of DNFs I think this is my first one star rating. It’s a novel-length sales pitch. “This is the greatest discovery since Penaciline.” I need more information about long term results from double blind studies rather than a collection of cherry picked personal stories.
Want to read
April 18, 2023#GoodreadsGiveaway
February 19, 2024
Read this book!!
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews