An Investigation of PTSD among Afghan Youth and Preliminary Analysis of their Needs

Abstract

This study investigates the prevalence and impact of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among Afghan youth, focusing on high school students in Kabul and Takhar. It explores factors contributing to PTSD, including the effects of war, socioeconomic status, and the mental health needs of these adolescents. Using a sample of 200 students aged 17-24, the research employs the PTSD Checklist-Civilian Version (PCL-C) to measure symptoms. Findings reveal that 40% of participant’s experience moderate to severe PTSD symptoms, with those exposed to higher levels of war trauma exhibiting significantly greater psychological distress. Additionally, girls reported higher PTSD levels than boys. Socioeconomic status also played a role, with students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds showing slightly higher PTSD symptoms. The study underscores the urgency of addressing mental health challenges in Afghanistan’s youth, as PTSD severely impacts academic performance and overall well-being. The research calls for targeted interventions, including better mental health support in schools, and highlights the need for further studies to develop effective treatment and prevention strategies for PTSD in post-conflict populations.