PTSD in Ancient Assyria: Historical Evidence of War’s Psychological Scars

by Rosa March 22, 2023

written by Rosa March 22, 2023

Ancient Assyrian Soldiers Grappled with PTSD

Historical Evidence of Trauma in Ancient Civilizations

For centuries, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has been recognized as a debilitating condition affecting soldiers returning from combat. However, recent research suggests that the psychological scars of war extend far beyond modern times.

PTSD in the Assyrian Dynasty

A groundbreaking study published in the journal Early Science and Medicine has uncovered evidence of PTSD-related symptoms in ancient Assyrian soldiers who lived between 1300 B.C. and 609 B.C. This discovery challenges the long-held belief that PTSD is a relatively recent phenomenon.

Symptoms Experienced by Assyrian Soldiers

Through translations of ancient texts, researchers have identified striking similarities between the symptoms experienced by Assyrian soldiers and those diagnosed with PTSD today. These symptoms include:

Hearing and seeing ghosts, particularly those of fallen comrades
Flashbacks
Sleep disturbances
Low mood

The Trauma of Ancient Warfare

Assyrian soldiers endured a grueling three-year cycle: one year of intense physical training, one year of combat, and one year of recovery. The horrors they witnessed on the battlefield left an indelible mark on their minds.

Recognition and Treatment of PTSD

Despite the prevalence of PTSD throughout history, it was only clinically recognized in the United States in 1980. Prior to that, soldiers suffering from post-combat psychological struggles were often dismissed as suffering from “shell shock” or other vague terms.

The Correlation Between War and PTSD

This new research reinforces the long-standing observation that war and PTSD are inextricably linked. The psychological trauma experienced by Assyrian soldiers over 3,000 years ago mirrors the experiences of modern-day veterans, demonstrating that the devastating effects of war on the human psyche are timeless.

Implications for Understanding PTSD

The discovery of PTSD in ancient Assyria has profound implications for our understanding of this condition. It suggests that:

PTSD is not a new phenomenon, but rather a deeply ingrained response to the horrors of war.
The psychological impact of war has been consistent throughout human history.
The recognition and treatment of PTSD are essential for the well-being of soldiers and veterans.

Conclusion

The study of PTSD in ancient Assyrian soldiers provides valuable insights into the historical prevalence and nature of this debilitating condition. By recognizing the timeless correlation between war and PTSD, we can better understand the challenges faced by those who have served in combat and develop more effective strategies for their care and support.

Rosa

Rosa is a distinguished software engineer whose passion for science and technology was kindled in her early childhood. Growing up in a household where academic curiosity was nurtured, Rosa was deeply influenced by her father, a dedicated physics professor. After long days at the university, her father would come home and engage Rosa in a world of scientific exploration, guiding her through various experiments and fostering a profound love for the intricacies of the physical world. From a young age, Rosa was captivated by the endless possibilities that science presented. She spent countless hours conducting experiments and learning the fundamental principles of physics. This early exposure to scientific inquiry not only honed her analytical skills but also instilled in her a relentless curiosity and a passion for problem-solving. Rosa's academic journey led her to pursue a degree in Computer Science, where she excelled in her studies, driven by the same enthusiasm that had characterized her childhood experiments. She graduated with honors, earning a Bachelor's degree from a prestigious university. Her academic achievements were marked by numerous accolades and scholarships, reflecting her dedication and exceptional talent in the field. In her professional career, Rosa has made significant contributions to the tech industry. She has worked for several leading technology companies, where she has been instrumental in developing innovative software solutions that have had a substantial impact on various sectors. Her expertise lies in designing and implementing complex algorithms, optimizing system performance, and ensuring the reliability and scalability of software applications. Beyond her technical prowess, Rosa is a strong advocate for women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). She actively participates in mentorship programs, guiding young women who aspire to pursue careers in technology. Rosa believes in the power of education and the importance of providing equal opportunities for all, and she dedicates her time to speaking at conferences and workshops to inspire the next generation of female engineers. In her personal life, Rosa continues to embrace her scientific roots. She enjoys spending her free time experimenting with new technologies, reading scientific journals, and engaging in discussions about the future of technology. Rosa's journey from a curious child conducting experiments to a successful software engineer is a testament to the power of early exposure to science and the enduring influence of a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment.