Para 2

• Para 2 - Part 1

  Shell shock, now known as PTSD, was a severe condition during WWI causing severe psychological trauma. Symptoms included tremors, nightmares, and deafness, sidelining up to 40% of British troops at the Battle of the Somme. Initially thought to be nerve injuries from bombardment, as introduced by Charles Myers in 1917, psychological factors were later recognised as key causes. This lack of recognition worsened soldiers' health, and some were shot for 'cowardice' when they could not fight
• Para 2 - part 2

  This is backed up by a quote from the author Stewart Ross in his book Witness History Series – war in the trenches, "The terrible mental strain of shell shock was not properly understood at first. Some of the 346 British soldiers shot for cowardice were really suffering from mental exhaustion or depression." Shell shock was the most severe trench condition for British soldiers on the Western Front due to its severe psychological impact and long-term effects.
• Para 2 - Part 3

  The army's limited understanding of how to treat it exacerbated the problem. Unlike physical injuries, mental trauma persisted after the war, making reintegration into civilian life challenging. Soldiers faced anxiety, flashbacks, and difficulties maintaining employment or relationships. This not only weakened military effectiveness during the war but also left lasting scars on society, as many former soldiers lacked proper support or recognition for their mental health issues.