Prevalence of PTSD and depression among Iraqi Yazidi refugees

Objective: A number of studies have shown that post-traumatic stress disorder and depression are common psychiatric disorders among refugees. Estimates for the prevalence of PTSD in refugees have ranged from 3% to 86% and those for depression from 3% to 80%. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of PTSD and depression among Iraqi Yazidi refugees.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Cizre/Sirnak refugee camp. Sample size calculation yielded 238. Two experienced and native Kurdish-speaking psychologists evaluated the participants. DSM-IV-TR diagnostic criteria for diagnosis of PTSD and depression were considered. The Stressful Life Events Screening Questionnaire was performed to each participants.

Results: The frequency of PTSD was 42.9% and the frequency of depression was 39.5%.The rate of PTSD and depression in women refugees was statistically higher than among male refugees. Traumatic events associated with PTSD were “had been in a region that is affected by war, “witnessed the death of a close friend or a family member” and “witnessed the abduction or being taken hostage of a close friend or a family member”.

Conclusion: Our findings indicate that PTSD and depression are frequently observed in war-affected regions, especially among women refugees. Loss and violence are important factors for the development of PTSD in refugees.