What is 1000 yard stare?

The term "1000 yard stare" refers to a distant, unfocused gaze that is often associated with trauma or combat stress. It is typically used to describe the vacant expression seen in the eyes of a person who has experienced intense psychological or emotional distress.

The phrase is believed to have originated during World War II, when soldiers who had been in combat for extended periods of time were observed to have a glazed-over look in their eyes. This stare was seen as a manifestation of the psychological toll that war and trauma can take on an individual.

The 1000 yard stare has since become a symbol of the mental and emotional toll of war, but it can also be seen in individuals who have experienced other forms of trauma or extreme stress. It is a reminder of the lasting impact that these experiences can have on a person's mental health and well-being.