Understanding PTSD: Beyond the Battlefield As we honour the sacrifices of our soldiers on ANZAC day, it’s essential to reflect not only on their bravery, but also on the psychological scars many carried home. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), once colloquially termed “Shell Shock,” was historically linked to combat experiences. Originally diagnosed during World War I, “Shell Shock” was often misunderstood, as caused only by shell bombardment and a sign of mental weakness. It was only in later years that mental health professionals recognised it as a genuine psychological condition that can stem from various traumatic experiences beyond combat. The term “shell shock” limited our understanding, leading many to overlook symptoms in civilians or to attribute them to other causes. Victims of abuse, survivors of accidents or natural disasters and witnesses to violence can all develop PTSD. The common thread is the experience of an overwhelming, life-threatening event that shatters one’s sense of safety and security and not related in any way to a person’s mental strength. PTSD symptoms encompass intrusive memories, distressing dreams, and avoiding triggers related to the traumatic event, potentially leading returning service members to avoid activities like ANZAC Day. Other symptoms include mood swings, memory disturbances, distorted beliefs, self-blame, ongoing fear, anger, guilt, shame, detachment from others, and difficulty experiencing positive emotions. Over-reactivity, irritability, reckless behaviour, hypervigilance and sleep disturbances may also occur. While these symptoms may initially arise after trauma, they often resolve with adequate social support. For some individuals, for a range of reasons, may go on to experience symptoms more chronically, necessitating professional intervention. Mental health professionals provide tailored therapies such as Trauma-focused cognitive-behavioural therapy (TF-CBT), exposure therapy, and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), which are among the evidence-based treatments proven effective in managing PTSD symptoms. Medications can also be prescribed to alleviate associated depression, anxiety, or insomnia. Seeking professional advice is crucial for those experiencing PTSD symptoms. Accessing support for some can be challenging. Stigma, lack of awareness and limited resources often act as barriers to seeking help. As a community, we must work to break down these barriers and foster environments of empathy and understanding. Understanding that, just as with “shell shock” not being the soldier’s fault, PTSD is not a sign of mental weakness. By promoting conversations about trauma and its effects, not just from the effects of the battlefield, people can be more aware of the effects of untreated trauma. ANZAC Day offers an opportunity not only to honour the past, but also to focus on the present. By acknowledging the broader impact of PTSD and the resources available for its treatment, we can ensure that those who carry the invisible wounds of trauma receive the support they deserve.