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This study aimed to assess the prevalence of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among Lebanese individuals internally displaced by the recent conflict and to identify key predictors of PTSD. The findings are intended to guide targeted policy and advocacy strategies aimed at improving mental health outcomes in this vulnerable population. To assess our aim, a cross-sectional survey was conducted with 400 internally displaced individuals across Lebanon. PTSD was assessed using the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5), depression using the PHQ-2, and anxiety using the GAD-2 scale. Food security status was measured using the Arab Family Food Security Scale (AFFSS). Capillary blood glucose levels were obtained via finger-prick and classified per ADA criteria. Resilience was measured using the Brief Resilience Scale (BRS). Logistic and linear regressions were used to identify predictors of PTSD status and symptom severity. The results showed the sample was predominantly female (74. 3%), with most participants reporting low education (63. 6%) and low monthly income (83. 3% earning less than 700). PTSD was highly prevalent, with 64. 8% screening positive (mean PCL-5 = 40. 53, SD = 20. 75). Depression (57. 5%) and anxiety (57%) were also widespread. Strong predictors of PTSD included depression (OR = 1. 303), anxiety (OR = 1. 576), food insecurity (B = 0. 803), and low education (OR = 2. 77). Resilience (OR = 0. 287; B = -8. 210) and receiving psychological counseling (OR = 0. 526) were protective, though only 28. 3% accessed mental health services. In conclusion, the study revealed a substantial mental health burden among displaced individuals, with PTSD closely linked to food insecurity, psychological distress, and limited access to care. Urgent, tailored interventions are needed to address these vulnerabilities.
Boutros et al. (Thu,) studied this question.