The Reality of PTSD Among WWII German Soldiers: A Personal Perspective

Growing up in a military family in the 1950s and 60s, with a father stationed in post-war Germany, I have firsthand experience with the lives of German soldiers during and after World War II. I often returned to Germany as a soldier myself, allowing me to observe a wide range of experiences and behaviors among these individuals. Contrary to the notion that German soldiers rarely suffered from PTSD or were treated exceptionally well, my observations paint a different picture.

Observations and Experiences

Often, the claim that German soldiers were treated better after the war or that they rarely suffered from PTSD is exaggerated. While there may have been instances where mental health was better managed or less discussed, there is evidence to suggest otherwise. The absence of direct evidence of past conflict, such as the numerous bombed-out buildings and secret underground bunkers, did not mean the scars of war were absent. Instead, I observed hardened, yet committed, German veterans who were dedicated to rebuilding the country while harboring deep fears of Soviet reprisal.

Moreover, while I did not witness overt disrespect or poor treatment among German war veterans, I did observe a pervasive problem of alcoholism and domestic violence within German homes. This suggests that the war's psychological toll extended beyond the battlefield to affect family life and public health.

War's Psychological Toll on German Soldiers

The exact prevalence of PTSD among German soldiers during World War II is difficult to gauge, given the gaps in historical records and the subjective nature of mental health diagnoses. It is essential to approach this topic with skepticism, as humans tend to underreport or misreport mental health issues. However, there are documented cases of mental breakdowns among German soldiers as early as the early stages of the war.

For instance, several reports reaching high-ranking officers, such as Hinaurer, highlighted the mental fragility of Wehrmacht soldiers, particularly those involved in the atrocities and firing squads. One particularly poignant account described a squad that collapsed after unloading a convent of nuns in Poland, leading to increased delegation to specialized units and further isolation of Wehrmacht soldiers from outside units. This experience likely contributed to a form of PTSD, even if not explicitly diagnosed as such, merely through the knowledge and fear of the soldiers' own actions.

Impact of Blitzkrieg and Amphetamine Use

The physical and psychological demands of war, particularly the phenomenon known as "Blitzkrieg," were exacerbated by the widespread use of amphetamines. Some have labeled this form of warfare "speed krieg," reflecting the extreme reliance on stimulants to maintain the soldiers' relentless pace. Over time, this use became self-sustaining, leading to increasing dependency and growing risks of withdrawal.

Further research indicates that the Wehrmacht was actively working to reduce amphetamine use by their soldiers, especially after the disastrous retreat at Stalingrad. Conversely, the Waffen-SS, another branch of the German military, may have continued increasing usage. The Eastern Front, in particular, saw a higher number of soldiers suffering from PTSD due to extended exposure to the rigors of battle and the high likelihood of survival.

Conclusion and Reflection

In conclusion, while there may have been some instances where the treatment of German soldiers after World War II was more humane or better documented, my personal experiences and observations suggest that the mental health challenges were significant and require a more nuanced understanding. Instead of sweeping statements, it is crucial to consider the complex and multifaceted nature of mental health issues in veterans, recognizing the severity of the war's lasting impacts on the German population.

Keywords

WWII, PTSD, German Soldiers, Battle Stress, World War II veterans