Exploring the Self-Reported Physical and Psychological Effects in a Population Exposed to a Regional Conflict.
J Community Health
; 49(4): 674-681, 2024 Aug.
Article
em En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-38393653
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND:
Conflict profoundly impacts community health and well-being. While post-conflict research exists, little is known about initial effects during active hostilities.OBJECTIVE:
To assess self-reported changes in health behaviors, distress, and care access within one month of regional warfare onset in a conflict-affected community.METHODS:
An online survey was conducted in November 2023 among 501 residents (mean age 40.5 years) of a community where war began October 7th. Measures evaluated physical health, mental health, diet, substance use, sleep, weight changes, and healthcare access before and after the declaration of war.RESULTS:
Relative to pre-war, respondents reported significantly increased rates of tobacco (56%) and alcohol (15%) consumption, worsening sleep quality (63%), elevated distress (18% sought help; 14% needed but didn't receive it), and postponed medical care (36%). Over a third reported weight changes. Distress was higher among females and those endorsing maladaptive coping.CONCLUSION:
Within one month, substantial impacts on community psychosocial and behavioral health emerged. Unmet mental health needs and risk-taking behaviors were early indicators of conflict's health consequences. Continuous monitoring of conflict-affected communities is needed to inform tailored interventions promoting resilience and prevent entrenchment of harms over time.
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Base de dados:
MEDLINE
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Autorrelato
Idioma:
En
Ano de publicação:
2024
Tipo de documento:
Article