Psychosocial consequences of war among civilian populations

There is an urgent need not only for cross-national research on the mental health effects of war on civilians using improved methods of study, but also for a continuous re-evaluation of the nosology of these effects. Purpose of review This paper reviews the most recent literature about the psychosocial consequences of war on civilians. We have focused mostly on the literature published in the English language (but also in French), and tried to answer the most important findings of mental health consequences and the impact of war on civilians. Recent findings Although already pointed out in studies prior to 2002, mental health effects of war cut across all strata of civilians: chronic conditions have lingered since World War II. Not only traditionally high-risk groups such as refugees, but also journalists covering war, peacekeepers, as well as partners of those exposed endure the consequences of war. Neuroimaging techniques are coming to the forefront of studies assessing the probable predisposing factors of sequelae of war stressors. Pre-exposure variables (family pathology, antisocial personality, substance use and others) are suggested to be additional factors that could increase the risk for exposure.