Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Orthopedic Patients’ Emotional Distress: Moderated Effects of Family and Friends’ Support

Abstract

Abstract Background: Research indicates that the psychological well-being of orthopedic patients can benefit from a robust social support system that offers emotional assistance both before and after surgery. However, the impact of social networks on mental health outcomes remains inconclusive due to variations in availability. Objectives: This study investigated the influence of support from family and friends in the relationship between post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and emotional distress among orthopedic patients in Nigeria. Materials and Methods: The study employed a hospital-based research design, using the 17-item PTSD self-report measure (PCL-C) and depression anxiety stress scales (DASS-21) to assess psychological distress and dimensions of social support from friends and family, involving 542 orthopedic patients from the National Orthopedic Hospital in Enugu, Nigeria. Results: The findings revealed a significant association between PTSD and emotional distress (β = 0.866; t = 9.245; P < 0.001). Family support was found to exacerbate emotional distress among orthopedic patients (β = 0.448; t = 4.176; P < 0.001), while support from friends showed an inverse effect on emotional distress (β = −0.310; t = −2.880; P < 0.01). Moreover, moderation analysis indicated that high family support reduces the effect of PTSD on emotional distress for orthopedic patients (β = −0.035; t = −3.539; [CI: −0.055, −0.016], P < 0.01). Conclusion: The study recommends prompt intervention for orthopedic patients to enhance their well-being by leveraging the available support from family and friends to alleviate the emotional distress associated with PTSD. Additionally, it underscores the importance of educating families and friends of orthopedic patients on their role in supporting the patient’s recovery journey.