A web-based analysis of public concern about Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Ukraine during the 2022 military conflict: An infodemiological study

Abstract

BackgroundThe 2022 military conflict in Ukraine has led to multiple traumas, including the loss of property, income, businesses, homes, life, and loved ones of millions of individuals. Thus, there is a need to examine the trauma-related needs in Ukraine, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD.) MethodThis study utilized an infodemiological design by exploring the keyword “Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (Topic)” in Google Trends from 2022 January 1 to 2022 March 16 in Ukraine. As an alternative measure for public concern, Relative Search Volume (RSV) and Interest by Region were described and compared ResultsThis study found rising public concern about PTSD in Ukraine, as manifested by an almost 50% increase in searches for PTSD between January and March 2022. The regions with the highest searches were Odessa, Zakarpats'ka, Kyiv city, Zhytomyrs'ka, Vinnyts'ka, Cherkas'ka, Kharkiv, Lviv, Kyivs'ka oblast, and Rivnens'ka. ConclusionThis study showed the possible application of infodemiological methods in military conflict zones. Given these, humanitarian efforts can include PTSD-related services in regions with the most significant concern and relative safety. Likewise, future analysis can determine where there is substantial public concern regarding PTSD. Moreover, countries receiving refugees should offer PTSD screening and services.