The Psychological Burden of the 2023 Sudanese Conflict: PTSD Prevalence and Coping Mechanisms

Abstract

Aims: This study aimed to identify the prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and to assess coping strategies among Sudanese individuals. Also, to evaluate the relationship between PTSD and coping mechanisms with sociodemographic characteristics. Methods: This study utilized a cross-sectional design to assess PTSD and coping strategies in 716 Sudanese adults affected by war, selected through convenience sampling. Participants completed a Google Form questionnaire that included sociodemographic data, the PTSD Checklist for DSM–5 (PCL-5), and a coping scale. The analysis was conducted using SPSS software version 26, applying various statistical tests to evaluate relationships and differences. Results: The findings revealed that nearly 43% of the sample met the criteria for a potential diagnosis of PTSD. About 69% of participants were female, with a median age of 23 years. Most participants were single (81%) and had been externally displaced (51%). Coping strategies varied among the participants: 34% focused on improving their habits, while others used reflective approaches (36%), sought positive perspectives (30%), employed humour (21%), or chose to wait for problems to resolve on their own (17%). Family income was significantly associated with PTSD symptoms (p=0.020). Participants with higher PTSD symptoms exhibited lower coping effectiveness, and both age and marital status significantly influenced coping mechanisms (p=0.027 and 0.037, respectively). Those who had been living in conflict zones for over six months reported the highest coping scores. Conclusion: Our findings confirmed a high level of PTSD symptoms among the participants. Duration of residency in the conflict zone impacted the coping adopted and income played a crucial role in developing PTSD. This study underscores the need for urgent specific psychological support for individuals affected by the conflict. Further research is required to foster mental well-being, and put more attention to this issue.