Complex posttraumatic stress disorder and prolonged grief disorder in times of war: Diagnostic symptoms and impact on the mental health of Ukrainian civilians during the Russia–Ukraine war

Objective: The present study aimed to explore several dimensions and potential factors of the mental state of the Ukrainian population during the Russia–Ukraine war which began on February 24, 2022. Specifically, relationships between complex posttraumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) overall, individual CPTSD symptoms, and prolonged grief disorder (PGD) were investigated. Additionally, differences in overall CPTSD, individual CPTSD symptoms, and PGD were examined concerning various sociodemographic factors (e.g., age or place of residence) and personal exposure to death. Method: The study was conducted with a sample of 359 Ukrainian participants (87.2% females, Mage = 36.81, SD = 9.97) who were living in Ukraine at the onset of the war. Measures included assessments of CPTSD, PGD, and sociodemographic data. Results: Significant positive associations were identified between CPTSD overall, intrusion, avoidance, hyperarousal, PGD, and age. Significant differences were observed between participants who had a relative who died in this war and those exposed to the death of an acquaintance regarding CPTSD and PGD, with participants who have lost a relative reporting higher scores compared with those exposed to the death of an acquaintance. Furthermore, 33.4% of respondents likely exhibit diagnostic symptoms of CPTSD and 18.11% likely exhibit diagnostic symptoms of PGD. Conclusions: This research contributes to the understanding of CPTSD and PGD within the context of a contemporary war. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.