Understanding Post-Conflict Mental Health: Assessment of PTSD, Depression, General Health and Life Events in Civilian Population One Year after the 2006 War in South Lebanon

Abstract

Assessing the psychological impact of war is crucial to meet the needs of communities following conflict. To date, mental health in Lebanon’s southern civilians has not been assessed in relation to the 2006 War. In 2007, face-to-face interviews were conducted in ten villages in South Lebanon. The sample, consisting of 991 adults, was chosen through random sampling using a crosssectional design. The study evaluated PTSD, traumatic events, depression and general health status. Of the total sample, 17.8% met threshold criteria for PTSD, 14.7% for depression and the average GHQ score was 4.31. Significant differences were observed across villages. This study revealed that war-related life events and exposure are highly associated with psychiatric problems one year following a violent conflict.