Potential Determinants of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorders among Soldiers in 82 Division Headquarters of the Nigerian Army, Enugu

Abstract

Background: Military personnel are at heightened risk for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) due to exposure to combat and traumatic events during operations. Despite the Nigerian Army's active engagement in counter-insurgency and peacekeeping missions, limited localized research exists on PTSD determinants among its soldiers.

Objective: This study investigated the potential determinants of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder among soldiers at Headquarters 82 Division Nigerian Army Enugu.

Methods: A cross-sectional design was employed with a sample of 244 soldiers (200 males, 44 females) selected through multi-stage sampling techniques. Data were collected using the Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Checklist-Military Version (PCL-M) and Combat Exposure Scale (CES). Mean scores and standard deviations answered research questions, while simple regression analysis tested hypotheses at a 0.05 significance level.

Results: Findings revealed multiple determinants of PTSD among soldiers, with the highest mean scores for torture (x̄=3.84, SD=0.81674), knowing someone seriously injured or killed (x̄=3.75, SD=0.16517), being shot at or receiving small arms fire (x̄=3.41, SD=0.16517), and being attacked or ambushed (x̄=2.98, SD=0.77745). The overall average mean score across determinants was 2.79 (SD=0.46496), indicating moderate to high exposure levels. Regression analysis showed a significant positive relationship between PTSD development and duration of combat exposure (R²=0.720, β=0.324, t=6.338, p<0.05), with combat exposure explaining 72% of variance in PTSD. Additionally, early rehabilitation services significantly impacted PTSD development and management (R²=0.423, F=40.176, p<0.05), accounting for 42% of variance.

Conclusion: PTSD among soldiers at Headquarters 82 Division Nigerian Army Enugu is determined by multiple combat-related factors, with torture, loss of comrades, and direct combat exposure being the most significant predictors. The duration of combat exposure substantially increases PTSD risk, while early rehabilitation services play a crucial protective role. The study recommends establishing trauma centers, employing mental health professionals, and implementing structured early intervention programs within military healthcare systems.