Comparison of the PTSD symptoms, depression and anxiety between bereaved and non-bereaved survivors after Wenchuan earthquake

Abstract

Objective To compare the differences of PTSD symptoms, depression and anxiety between bereaved and non-bereaved survivors, and to explore the risk factors of PTSD among victims of the Sichuan earthquake 2008. Methods To investigate the mental health status among 560 survivors of disaster six-month after the earthquake using post-traumatic stress disorder Checklist, Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAMA). Results There were 10.9% of victims who lost their relatives in the earthquake. The rates of PTSD symptoms among bereaved survivors (44.4% ) were significantly higher than non-bereaved group (15.1% ) (P<0.05). The rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation among bereaved survivors (55.5% , 44.4%, and 44.5% ) were significantly higher than that of the non-bereaved group respectively ( 17.4%, 16.7%, and 14.2% ) (P<0.001). Bereaved survivors with PTSD symptoms reported comorbidity of medium to severe depression (79.2%) and anxiety symptoms (75%). Bereaved survivors with medium to severe depression reported comorbidity of anxiety symptoms (83.4%) . Total score of depression and anxiety, previous anxiety, nightmare, and feeling of being lonely could predict the level of PTSD symptoms. Conclusion The rates of depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, and PTSD symptoms of bereaved survivors were significantly higher than non-bereaved group. There were multi-factors which could predict PTSD in bereaved survivors. Bereaved survivors were high risk victims of PTSD, depression, and anxiety. Key words: Post-traumatic stress disorder; Anxiety; Depression; Bereavers