While we don't have direct historical evidence or records from ancient times about specific mental health conditions like PTSD, it is reasonable to assume that soldiers in ancient times would have experienced trauma and stress similar to what modern soldiers face in combat. However, the understanding and recognition of mental health disorders, including PTSD, were very different in ancient societies compared to our present understanding.
In ancient times, warfare was often brutal and involved significant violence, loss, and prolonged exposure to traumatic events. Soldiers would have witnessed death, experienced injury, and faced the constant threat to their lives. These experiences undoubtedly had a profound psychological impact on individuals, leading to what might have been described in historical accounts as "battle fatigue," "shell shock," or other terms. However, these terms and concepts did not necessarily encompass a comprehensive understanding of PTSD as we do today.
Ancient civilizations often attributed mental distress to spiritual or divine causes rather than recognizing them as psychological or physiological disorders. Methods of coping and support would have varied depending on the culture and time period. Some ancient societies might have employed rituals, ceremonies, or healing practices to address psychological distress, while others may not have had specific mechanisms in place to support affected individuals.
It's important to note that historical accounts and writings can be interpreted through the lens of contemporary knowledge, so we must be cautious when making direct comparisons between ancient experiences and modern concepts of PTSD.
Overall, while the term "PTSD" and our contemporary understanding of it did not exist in ancient times, it is reasonable to assume that soldiers in those eras faced mental and emotional challenges resulting from their experiences in warfare.