The term “shell shock” emerged during World War I to describe psychological trauma experienced by soldiers exposed to intense bombardment and combat. Symptoms included severe anxiety, tremors, and emotional distress. In a notable case, a soldier exhibited extreme fear and agitation when a doctor presented him with a military helmet, indicating a deep association between the object and his traumatic experiences. Over time, the understanding of such conditions evolved, leading to the modern diagno

"Shell Shock is terrible ... It was tough for a while as every time someone dropped something on the floor, like for instance a spoon, or an unusually loud noise, I would holler and either try to hide under the sheets or get under the bed." -Duncan Kemerer, 28th Division Shell Shock, or PTSD, has been a part of war since war began. Mental injuries took their toll on soldiers in WWI, and illustrate the statement made by Sgt. York that, "War means more than uniforms, marching, and band music, it m

In 1918, British soldiers suffering from "shell shock" — what we now call PTSD — were treated at the Devon Hospital in England. This rare footage shows their condition before and after therapy, capturing both the devastating effects of trench warfare and the first attempts at psychological treatment. | VibrantHistory