I noticed that a lot of media and publications talk about Vietnam War veterans suffering from PTSD and other psychological/mental health issues.
What was so devastating in this specific war comparing to other wars (i.e. WW1 and WW2) that caused so many vets’ trauma?
Or is it a matter of fact that during previous wars mental health care was less developed?
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I’m not sure it is the case that Vietnam was worse than the other wars. But some things that were different:
* trauma medicine had really advanced. Wounded soldiers could be helicoptered from front lines to a surgeon in time to save their lives. Lots more wounded who lived compared to previous wars. Those survivors were maybe more likely to have mental trauma.
* the rules of engagement sucked. WWII and previous wars had a clear enemy who wore regular uniforms and operated under an obvious chain of command. Vietnam was jungle warfare against an insurgency and a massive problem telling civilians from combatants. A lot of war crimes happened. And air power wasn’t as much advantage in a jungle vs. Northern Europe.
* It’s pretty demoralizing to realize your war is unwinnable, and even more demoralizing when you find out about the Pentagon Papers and DoD knew Vietnam was unwinnable by 1968. War continued until 1975.
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