This Footage Of A Shellshocked Soldier From World War I Will Break Your Heart

By | April 14, 2016

Following the end of World War I, the world were faced with yet another dilemma, something they'd never seen before — a bizarre condition that was once known as shellshock. Today, we refer to that condition as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). But in 1918, the condition was poorly defined, and treatment of victims was often harsh and ineffective.

Fortunately, United Kingdom-based psychiatrist Dr. Arthur Hurst changed all that. Instead of punishing shellshock victims, Dr. Hurst developed an alternative treatment which involve a combination of hypnosis, persuasion, massage therapy, and dietary changes. As you can see in the video below, Dr. Hurst's treatments were incredibly effective.

Thanks to the work of Dr. Arthur Hurst, today, people suffering from PTSD are treated with respect. Most important of all, they're no longer being subjected to inhumane practices that once kept those who served their countries from ever finding relief.

"A huge respect to our service men and women who sacrificed their life for peace and to those who continue to serve throughout the world."

Credit: War Archives