I can provide information based on historical knowledge and data.
The recognition of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) as a consequence of serving in the military has evolved over time. While the condition itself has likely existed throughout history, the formal understanding and acknowledgment of PTSD in relation to military service began to take shape during and after major conflicts, especially in the 20th century.
World War I (1914-1918): During and after World War I, there was an increasing recognition of "shell shock" or "war neurosis" among soldiers. The term "shell shock" referred to the psychological trauma soldiers experienced after exposure to the relentless bombardments of artillery shells. These symptoms were initially misunderstood and often stigmatized, leading to little understanding or support for affected individuals.
World War II (1939-1945): The understanding of combat-related psychological trauma continued to develop during World War II. Terms like "combat fatigue" and "battle fatigue" were used to describe soldiers' mental and emotional struggles. The military began to recognize that intense and prolonged exposure to combat situations could lead to psychological distress.
Vietnam War (1955-1975): The Vietnam War brought greater attention to the psychological impact of military service. Soldiers returning from Vietnam displayed a wide range of psychological symptoms, including nightmares, flashbacks, anxiety, and depression. The experiences of Vietnam veterans played a crucial role in shaping the modern understanding of PTSD.
Recognition as a medical disorder: In 1980, PTSD was officially recognized as a psychiatric disorder in the third edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-III), published by the American Psychiatric Association. This marked a significant milestone in the acknowledgment and understanding of the condition as a result of traumatic experiences, including combat.
Since then, there has been an increasing effort to address and support veterans dealing with PTSD. Governments, military institutions, and healthcare providers have been working to improve awareness, treatment, and support for those affected by combat-related trauma. Additionally, research continues to deepen our understanding of PTSD and refine the approaches used to address its impact on veterans' lives.