PREVALENCE OF POST TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER AMONG FEMALE INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS (IDPs) IN FARIYA IDP CAMP, MAIDUGURI BORNO STATE
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a severe and potentially disabling mental health condition that may arise in individuals who have experienced or witnessed life-threatening situations such as natural disasters, serious accidents, armed conflict, or violent personal assaults. It is marked by symptoms including intrusive distressing memories, flashbacks, and recurring nightmares related to the traumatic event. This study was conducted at the Fariya Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) Camp in Maiduguri, Borno State, to assess the prevalence of PTSD among female internally displaced persons. A descriptive research design was employed, and data were collected through questionnaires and interviews. A total of 120 questionnaires were administered to female respondents aged 13–60 years. Data were analyzed using frequency distribution and presented in tabular form. The findings revealed a cumulative PTSD prevalence of 42.1% among the respondents based on symptom assessment criteria. Major risk factors identified included exposure to war and sexual assault. The coping strategies adopted by respondents included religious faith and prayers, family and community support, hope for the future, acceptance of their circumstances, and assistance from government and non-governmental organizations. The study concludes that appropriate preventive measures and interventions should be implemented to address these risk factors, and individuals diagnosed with PTSD should be referred to psychosocial support (PSS) professionals for specialized care.
Language: English
Subfield: Clinical Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7127049541