Anxiety Mood.  2021 Oct;17(2):67-72. 10.24986/anxmod.2021.17.2.003.

Prevalence of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Among North Korean Defectors During Preparation for Early Settlement

• Chang SY
• Jeon JY
• Maeng SR
• Kim H
• Bae JN
• Lee JS
• Kim WH

• KMID: 2522102
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.24986/anxmod.2021.17.2.003

Abstract

Objective
: This study examined the prevalence of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among North Korean defectors during preparation for early settlement. In addition, the correlation between PTSD and other mental disorders with suicidal ideation was assessed.
Methods
: A total of 639 North Korean defectors aged 19-65 years were included from resettlement and training centers. PTSD was assessed using the PTSD Diagnostic Scale (PDS). The prevalence of other mental disorders and suicidal ideation were assessed using the Korean version of the Psychiatric Diagnostic Screening Questionnaire (K-PDSQ).
Results
: A total of 6.8% of North Korean defectors had a PDS score >23, which was suggestive of a diag-nosis of PTSD. Prior repatriation to North Korea was significantly associated with PTSD. The defectors with PTSD had a higher prevalence of other mental disorders (major depressive disorder prevalence: adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 14.5; 95% confidence interval [CI], 6.7-31.2, panic disorder prevalence: AOR, 9.5; 95% CI, 4.6-20.0, generalized anxiety disorder prevalence: AOR, 5.6; 95% CI, 2.4-13.2). No significant association was found between suicidal ideation and PTSD.
Conclusion
: North Korean defectors had a relatively high prevalence of PTSD and suicidal ideation dur-ing preparation for early settlement. Cohort studies are needed to assess the lasting effects of PTSD on North Korean defectors' settlement in Korea for a longer period.

Keyword

PTSD; Mental health; Repatriation; Comorbidity; Early settlement