Exploring the association of depression and post traumatic stress disorder among humanitarian aid workers along the Thai-Myanmar border

Abstract

Background

Humanitarian aid workers (HAWs) are exposed to high levels of stress, resulting in substantial risks for mental health issues such as depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Objective

This study aimed to determine the prevalence of depression and PTSD among HAWs along the Thai-Myanmar border and identify factors influencing these conditions.

Methods

This cross-sectional study surveyed 424 HAWs from four Thai-Myanmar border provinces from October 2023 to September 2024, using stratified random sampling. Logistic regression was applied to analyze factors associated with depression and PTSD.

Results

Depression was identified in 19.8 % (95 % Confidence Interval: 16.28–23.89) of participants and PTSD symptoms were observed in 26.4 % (95 % CI: 22.43–30.83) of HAWs. Depression was associated with homeownership, dysfunctional family relationships, and roles in job sectors while PTSD was linked to poor sleep, moderate family support, secondary traumatic stress and poor quality of life. High burnout, stress and depression were also significant risk factors.Workers with a lower quality of life were 3.45 times (Adjusted Odds Ratio 3.45, 95 % CI: 1.61–7.40) more likely to experience depression and 2.27 times (AOR 2.27, 95 % CI: 1.25–4.13) more likely to experience PTSD.

Conclusion

Nearly 20 % of humanitarian aid workers experienced depression, and over 25 % reported PTSD. Depression was linked to homeownership, family relationships and job sectors. PTSD was associated with poor sleep, moderate family support, secondary traumatic stress and low quality of life. High burnout, stress and depression were significant risks. Improving quality of life and providing mental health support are essential interventions.