Watch War's Secret Shame: Shell Shock

War's Secret Shame: Shell Shock is a powerful and poignant documentary series from BBC Select that takes a close look at one of the most devastating legacies of war - post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), also known as shell shock. The series delves deep into the psychological and emotional impact of combat on soldiers and veterans, exploring the profound and often long-lasting effects of trauma on the human mind and spirit.

Over the course of four episodes, War's Secret Shame: Shell Shock brings together expert insights, archival footage, and first-hand accounts from veterans and their families to provide a comprehensive and compelling portrait of a condition that has affected countless soldiers and their loved ones throughout history. The series shines a light on the hidden scars of war, and the ways in which the military, medical, and social establishments have struggled to understand and address the lasting effects of combat trauma.

The first episode, "From Shock to Shame," sets the stage for the series, exploring the early history of shell shock and its evolution over time. From the first documented cases during World War I to modern-day diagnoses of PTSD, the episode examines the shifting understanding of trauma and its impact on soldiers' lives. The episode also explores how governments and military leaders have responded to the condition over time, from the early days of shell shock being dismissed as cowardice, to modern-day efforts to support veterans and help them heal.

In the second episode, "The Burden of a Secret," the series takes a more personal approach, examining the experiences of individual soldiers and their families. Through interviews with veterans and their loved ones, the episode explores the often-hidden realities of combat trauma, from the fear and anxiety that soldiers experience on the battlefield to the challenges of readjusting to civilian life. The episode also sheds light on the ways in which trauma can impact family relationships, and how the stigma surrounding mental health can make it difficult for soldiers to seek the help they need.

The third episode, "The Road to Recovery," focuses on the different approaches to treating PTSD that have emerged over time. From traditional therapies like group counseling and exposure therapy to more experimental approaches like psychedelic-assisted therapy, the episode explores the different paths to healing that veterans have taken. The episode also looks at the various challenges that come with treating PTSD, from the need for more accessible mental health services to the social and cultural barriers that can prevent soldiers from seeking help.

Finally, the fourth episode, "Breaking the Silence," looks at the ways in which veterans and their families have come together to raise awareness about PTSD and advocate for better support and treatment. From grassroots organizations to national campaigns, the episode highlights the various ways in which veterans and their allies are fighting to end the stigma around mental health and ensure that those who have served in combat receive the care and support they deserve.

Overall, War's Secret Shame: Shell Shock is a gripping and deeply moving series that sheds light on one of the most urgent and pressing issues facing veterans today. With its powerful mix of expert analysis, personal stories, and historical context, the series offers a nuanced and compassionate look at the impact of war on the human psyche, and the ongoing fight to support those who have sacrificed so much in service to their country.

War's Secret Shame: Shell Shock is a series that ran for 1 seasons (1 episodes) between November 12, 2018 and on BBC Select