Healthcare professionals attitudes practices and challenges in managing posttraumatic stress disorder in Sudan during armed conflict

Abstract

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a prevalent mental health condition in conflict zones. The ongoing conflict in Sudan has severely impacted the healthcare system, leaving healthcare professionals with significant challenges in managing PTSD. Despite the rising prevalence of PTSD, little is known about the attitudes and practices of Sudanese healthcare providers in addressing it. This study aims to evaluate the attitudes, practices, and challenges faced by healthcare professionals in managing PTSD during the Sudan conflict, with a focus on identifying factors influencing their readiness to provide care. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 1,229 doctors in Sudan using a structured, self-administered questionnaire. The survey assessed socio-demographics, knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to PTSD. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26, with chi-square tests and logistic regression applied to identify significant associations. While 69.2% (n = 727) of participants demonstrated favorable attitudes toward PTSD, only 21.9% (n = 269) reported sufficient practices. Mental health training significantly increased the odds of sufficient practices (OR = 3.34, 95% CI: 2.47–4.52), as did prior displacement more than three times (OR = 1.94, 95% CI: 1.11–3.36). However, only 9.3% (n = 114) used DSM-5 criteria for PTSD diagnosis, and 70.4% (n = 865) lacked formal psychiatry training. Barriers included resource limitations (64.3%, n = 790) and cultural challenges. This study highlights critical gaps in PTSD management among Sudanese healthcare professionals, emphasizing the need for targeted training, resource allocation, and culturally appropriate interventions to improve mental health during and after conflict.