An Evaluation of PTSD Among Victims of Communal Violence in Benue State
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Background of the Study
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a debilitating mental health condition that can develop following exposure to traumatic events, including communal violence. In Benue State, incidents of communal clashes have resulted in significant psychological trauma for affected individuals. The violence, often fueled by ethnic and political tensions, leaves survivors with lasting emotional scars that impair daily functioning and quality of life (Okwu, 2024). PTSD manifests through symptoms such as intrusive memories, flashbacks, severe anxiety, and emotional numbness, all of which can severely disrupt an individual’s social and occupational life. In communities where communal violence is recurrent, the prevalence of PTSD is a growing public health concern that demands urgent attention.
The landscape of mental health care in Benue State is marked by limited resources, a shortage of trained professionals, and the pervasive stigma associated with mental illness. Survivors of communal violence frequently encounter barriers to accessing timely and effective mental health services. Traditional healing practices, while culturally significant, may not provide the necessary clinical intervention to address the complex manifestations of PTSD. Moreover, the social stigma attached to mental health issues often prevents survivors from seeking help, further complicating their recovery process (Chima, 2025). The cumulative effect of trauma from repeated exposure to violence has led to a cycle of psychological distress that hinders both individual recovery and community rebuilding.
Given the increasing frequency of communal violence and its profound psychological impact, it is essential to evaluate the prevalence and severity of PTSD among affected individuals in Benue State. By understanding the extent of trauma and identifying the barriers to mental health care, this study aims to inform the development of comprehensive support systems that address both the clinical and social needs of survivors. Such an evaluation is crucial not only for the immediate well-being of those affected but also for the long-term stability and resilience of communities recovering from conflict. Through a careful examination of PTSD prevalence, symptomatology, and access to mental health services, the study seeks to contribute to a more informed and effective public health response to the aftermath of communal violence.
Statement of the Problem
Communal violence in Benue State has left a deep psychological imprint on its victims, with many experiencing symptoms consistent with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Despite the recognized impact of such violence, there is limited empirical data on the prevalence and severity of PTSD among survivors. The existing mental health infrastructure in Benue State is often ill-equipped to address the complex needs of trauma victims, and the cultural stigma associated with mental illness further deters many from seeking professional help (Ifeanyi, 2024). Survivors not only grapple with the immediate psychological aftermath of violence but also face long-term challenges, including impaired social functioning, chronic anxiety, and depression. The lack of comprehensive mental health support exacerbates these conditions, leaving victims to cope with persistent distress and a diminished quality of life.
The problem is compounded by the scarcity of specialized trauma care and the reliance on traditional coping mechanisms that may not adequately address the clinical aspects of PTSD. Furthermore, many survivors experience additional stressors such as economic hardship, displacement, and loss of social networks, which contribute to the chronicity of their symptoms. The absence of targeted interventions means that a significant number of individuals remain untreated, thereby perpetuating a cycle of trauma that hampers community recovery and development. This study aims to fill the existing research gap by providing a detailed evaluation of PTSD among victims of communal violence in Benue State. The insights obtained will be critical for designing effective, culturally sensitive mental health interventions that can mitigate the long-term impact of trauma on survivors.
Objectives of the Study
1. To assess the prevalence and severity of PTSD among victims of communal violence in Benue State.
2. To identify the key factors that exacerbate PTSD symptoms in this population.
3. To recommend culturally appropriate intervention strategies to improve mental health outcomes for survivors.
Research Questions
1. What is the prevalence of PTSD among victims of communal violence in Benue State?
2. Which factors contribute most significantly to the severity of PTSD symptoms?
3. What interventions can effectively alleviate PTSD symptoms and promote recovery among survivors?
Research Hypotheses
1. There is a high prevalence of PTSD among individuals exposed to communal violence in Benue State.
2. Economic hardship and loss of social support significantly exacerbate PTSD symptoms.
3. Culturally tailored mental health interventions will result in a measurable reduction in PTSD symptom severity.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study focuses on survivors of communal violence in selected areas of Benue State. Data will be collected through clinical assessments and structured interviews. Limitations include potential underreporting of symptoms due to stigma and challenges in reaching displaced populations.
Definitions of Terms
• PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder): A mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing traumatic events, characterized by symptoms such as flashbacks, avoidance, and heightened anxiety.
• Communal Violence: Violent conflicts between communities, often driven by ethnic, religious, or political factors.
• Survivors: Individuals who have experienced and lived through episodes of communal violence.
• Intervention Strategies: Programs and therapeutic approaches designed to alleviate trauma and promote mental health recovery.
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