Post-traumatic stress disorder and associated factors among soldiers retiring from active service in Uganda: Across sectional study

Background Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is one of the commonest mental health challenges among veterans and service members. However, studies on PTSD and its associated factors among military personnel in Uganda are limited. This study estimated the prevalence of PTSD and associated factors among soldiers retiring from active service in Uganda. Methods In this cross-sectional study we recruited 247 retiring soldiers and assessed for PTSD using the PTSD check list for DSM-5. We also collected information on socio-demographic characteristics including gender, age, number of years in military service, level of education, and marital status, alcohol use, drug use, exposure to life, childhood trauma, and depression. participants. Results Of the 247 participants, 97 % (n = 239) were male, 47 % (n = 115), the average age was 46 (SD = 8.03) years, and the average duration of military service was 22 (SD = 8.36) years. The prevalence of PTSD among study participants was 13 % (n = 32). The factors associated with PTSD were moderate to hazardous alcohol consumption (aOR = 3.44; 95 % CI = 1.27–9.28; p = 0.02) and depression (aOR = 6.19; 95 % CI = 2.15–17.84; p = 0.0010). Conclusion This study found a 13 % prevalence of PTSD among retiring military personnel in Uganda, with depression and hazardous alcohol use significantly increasing its odds. These findings underscore the need for targeted mental health screening and intervention during the transition to civilian life, particularly addressing depression and alcohol use.