“Shell Shock,” coined in WWI for soldiers’ psychological symptoms initially linked to physical trauma, later revealed a complex mix of psychological and physical factors, ultimately contributing to the concept of PTSD. Like history? Follow us @HistoryPhotographed 🌟 | History In Pictures

1000 Yard Stare - Symptoms of Shell shock | Simple History

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