Association between post-traumatic stress symptoms and functional health among internally displaced people in Myanmar

Abstract

WHAT IS KNOWN ON THE SUBJECT?: Internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Myanmar have been exposed to conflict and violence for a long time and experience physical, psychological and social problems. Post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) are more prevalent among IDPs than among general populations and refugees, and limited research is available on this topic among IDPs in Myanmar. WHAT THE PAPER ADDS TO EXISTING KNOWLEDGE?: More than one-third of the IDPs in our sample from Myanmar camps had a high PTSS score. More than two-thirds experienced traumatic events and left home after age 18. The overall functional health of IDPs was poor, and the presence or absence of PTSS led to differences in the factors associated with functional health in each group. Resilience and PTSS were associated with the functional health of IDPs in Myanmar. Further, functional health was positively correlated with levels of resilience among those relatively low in PTSS. WHAT ARE THE IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE?: Mental health nurses need to assess IDPs' health status and PTSS by first performing health screening at camps in Myanmar. Subsequently, tailored interventions can be provided according to individual health conditions and PTSS severity. IDPs in Myanmar need psychological first aid to cope with the ongoing conflict and violence, and further mental health nurse training is necessary to implement this aid and tailored interventions for PTSS.

Abstract: INTRODUCTION: Internally displaced persons (IDPs) are individuals forced to leave their homes and move within their country. Post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) are prevalent in this population.

Aim: To investigate trauma symptoms and functional health of IDPs in Myanmar and identify the factors associated with their functional health according to the presence/absence of PTSS.

Method: This cross-sectional study included 201 IDPs who completed a questionnaire on functional health, PTSS, resilience, social support and hope. The analysis included descriptive statistics, t-tests, Pearson's correlation coefficients and multiple linear regression with interaction analyses.

Results: Over one-third of the participants had PTSS, with low functional health scores. The greater the resilience, the better the functional health. The higher participants' PTSS, the poorer their functional health. There was a significant interaction between resilience and PTSS.

Discussion: Tailored resilience-building programs, as well as health policies and services, are needed to enhance IDPs' functional health and help them overcome PTSS.

Implications for practice: Psychological first aid should be provided to minimize PTSS experienced in situations of ongoing conflict and violence. Mental health nurses should be trained to assess IDPs' health status and tailor interventions accordingly.