Prevalance of PTSD symptoms and depression and level of coping among the victims of the Kashmir conflict

Abstract

This study examined the prevalence of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, depression, and coping mechanisms among the adult civilian population in Indian Kashmir. The Everstine Trauma Response Index-Adapted, the Beck Depression Inventory, and the Coping Resources Inventory were used to assess the three domains. Independent-sample t tests were used between the directly and indirectly traumatized groups to explore each of the five hypotheses of this study. The results showed significant differences for all of the hypotheses. The implications of the study are discussed and recommendations given to address the mental health situation of the victims.