Daily Stressors, Depression and Suicidal Ideation among Female Refugees in Omugo camp zone 3, West Nile Region, Uganda.

Abstract

Ever since world war 11, the world is facing an increasing number of refugees each passing year. By 2023, there were 36.4 million refuges worldwide. Of these Uganda holds number at 1,434,708 million. Refugees are kept in camps where they are subjected to daily stressors and experience depression due to past experiences. This study aimed at examining the relationship of daily stressors, depression and suicidal ideation among female refugees in Omugo camp Zone 3, Terego District in Uganda. The study employed a quantitative cross section and correlational study of 377 participants systematic sampled. Structured questionnaires were used to collect data. The Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) measured depression, the Checklist for Daily & Environmental Stressors measured daily stressors and the Positive and Negative Suicide Ideation Inventory (PANSI) measured suicidal ideations. Data was analyzed using SPSS V25. Pearson’s correlations co-efficient and Baron and Kenny where used to test the hypothesis. Results revealed a statistical significance between daily stressors and depression (p < 0.001, r = -0.284), a statistical significance between daily stressors and suicidal ideations (p < 0.001, r = -0.252) and a statistical significance between depression and suicide ideations (p < 0.001, r = 0.345). The relationship between daily stressors and suicide ideation became was moderated by depression (p < 0.001, Coeff = -4.947). The study recommends a more personalized strategy to treat depression among refugees and a need to assess refugees grappling with depression and suicidal thoughts with respect to daily stressors since different refugees may interpret and respond to different daily stressors differently and be affected differently. Future research should focus how daily stressors can be used to reduce depression and suicidal thoughts.