Abstract
OBJECTIVE: This study assessed the prevalence of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and examined their associated factors among internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Burao, Somaliland. METHODS: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from April 15 to May 30, 2025, among 372 IDPs aged ≥18 years selected through systematic random sampling from two settlements. Data were collected using structured interviewer-administered questionnaires incorporating internationally validated tools: The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), and Primary Care PTSD Screen for DSM-5 (PC-PTSD-5). Descriptive statistics were computed, followed by univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses to identify factors associated with each disorder. Adjusted odds ratios (AORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were reported, with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant. RESULTS: The prevalence of depression, anxiety, and PTSD was 63.4%, 53.0%, and 38.2%, respectively. For depression, participants displaced for 1-5 years were less likely to report depressive symptoms (AOR = 0.14, 95% CI: 0.04-0.47). For anxiety, married individuals had higher odds (AOR = 3.38, 95% CI: 1.38-8.28), larger household size increased risk (AOR = 1.89, 95% CI: 1.11-3.22), while secondary education was protective (AOR = 0.06, 95% CI: 0.01-0.47). For PTSD, older age was a strong predictor (26-35 years: AOR = 2.41, 95% CI: 1.10-5.30; 36-60 years: AOR = 3.58, 95% CI: 1.62-7.89), and being single increased odds (AOR = 4.41, 95% CI: 1.24-15.75). CONCLUSION: Mental disorders are highly prevalent among IDPs in Burao, with depression being the most common. Each disorder demonstrated distinct risk profiles: demographic, educational, and displacement-related factors influenced the likelihood of depression, anxiety, and PTSD differently. Tailored psychosocial and community-based mental health interventions are urgently needed to address these specific risk factors and reduce the mental health burden among displaced populations.