The healing factor of Wolverine is one of the most impressive Mutant powers to be found among the X-Men. While there is some conflict as to just how quickly and completely Logan can recover from injuries, he is undeniably resilient. However, Uncanny X-Men #6 reveals that there are some conditions that even he can’t recover from.
Written by Gail Simone, with art by Javier Garrón, Uncanny X-Men #6 finds tension building between Rogue and Wolverine. Rogue absorbed the telepathic powers of a dying Mutant and gained an accidental insight into Logan’s mind. She knew that Logan was hurting about something recent but was typically tight-lipped about expressing his feelings.
Wolverine finally opened up to Gambit and Rogue about the recent death of some old soldier friends. They had made a vow on a bottle of fancy tequila that the last one of them alive would get it. Unsurprisingly, the virtually immortal Logan won the prize. However, Logan didn’t want to drink it, as that would be “an ending… another chapter of a long, long novel shut.” He wanted to bury the bottle with two people he trusted, rather thank drink it. Gambit took his meaning and said it would be an honor, but Rogue refused because of a revelation she had just had regarding her Uncanny X-Men teammate.
Wolverine is hinted to have PTSD
Tearfully, Rogue says that Logan’s mind and heart are “all-too-damn human,” regardless of how much damage his body can take. Rogue also says it is clear that all the trauma he’s survived has gotten to him. To that end, she thinks that Logan has developed PSTD after losing so many loved ones.
PTSD (or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) is a mental condition brought on by extreme stress and constant exposure to traumatic events. Symptoms include severe anxiety, flashbacks, recurring nightmares, and uncontrollable thoughts regarding the events that brought on the condition. These are issues that long-time X-Men readers will recall Wolverine suffering from.
Logan is quick to point out that Rogue isn’t a therapist and isn’t qualified to diagnose him. This is a fair point, even if she did telepathically sense his pain. Certainly, any soldier who is suspected of suffering from PTSD should seek professional help. Unfortunately, a crisis strikes before Wolverine can further deal with the issue, leaving it up in the air if he does have PTSD or will seek help.
Uncanny X-Men #6 is now available at comic shops everywhere.
