Work

Deployment-related traumatic stressors and subclinical depression among peacekeeping veterans

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Subclinical depression among peacekeeping veterans remains understudied despite its prevalence and potential to progress to major depression. This study examined associations between deployment-related traumatic stressors and subclinical depressive symptoms in 2,258 Finnish peacekeeping veterans. Subclinical depression was measured using the Depression Scale (DEPS) and traumatic stressor exposure via a 16-item questionnaire. Frequent traumatic stressor exposure was associated with an increased risk of subclinical depression, with 5 out of 16 stressors showing significant associations. The strongest predictor was feeling powerless to help sufficiently within one’s role as peacekeeper, suggesting moral injury significantly contributes to the development of subclinical depression. These results highlight the importance of developing post-deployment screening to detect non-danger-based stressors and subclinical conditions that carry the risk of progressing into severe mental health disorders.

Source: Journal of Military Studies

DOI: 10.2478/jms-2026-0003

Authors: Alex Siira, Toni Survonen, Petteri Simola, Sami Määttä

Institutions: Tampere University, Puolustusvoimien tutkimuslaitos, Niilo Mäki institute

Language: English

Topic: Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Research

Subfield: Clinical Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Peace, justice, and strong institutions

Open Access status: hybrid

OpenAlex ID: W7224761879