What made the Vietnam War a fertile breeding ground for PTSD?

The nature of the Vietnam War contributed significantly to the prevalence of PTSD among combatants, with the primary factor being the constant state of alertness required due to the absence of clear front lines. In this conflict, soldiers faced an unpredictable and unconventional warfare environment, including guerilla tactics and ambushes. This unpredictability meant that troops were often in continuous danger, experiencing stress and fear without any clear respite.

Unlike traditional wars where phases of combat could allow for recovery time, the relentless nature of the Vietnam War meant that soldiers could not easily let down their guard, leading to heightened anxiety and trauma. The psychological strain from being in a constant state of readiness, combined with exposure to violent and traumatic events, significantly increased the likelihood of developing PTSD.

This context highlights how the unique characteristics of the Vietnam War created conditions that were particularly conducive to the development of long-lasting psychological effects in soldiers.