Prevalence of PTSD among the Survivors of the Sinai Fire Disaster in Mukuru-Sinai Informal Settlement, Nairobi County, Kenya

This study examined the prevalence of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) among survivors of the 2011 Sinai Fire disaster in Mukuru-Sinai informal settlement, Nairobi, Kenya. With global PTSD prevalence estimates ranging from 3.9% to 5.6%, and higher rates in disaster-affected populations, this research addressed a critical gap in understanding PTSD in vulnerable urban communities. Guided by the Shattered Assumptions Theory, which posits that traumatic events disrupt core beliefs about the world's benevolence and predictability, the study employed a descriptive correlational design. A sample of 294 survivors completed the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5), with additional qualitative data gathered through key informant interviews. Results revealed that 27.9% of survivors exhibited clinically significant PTSD symptoms, with 23.8% experiencing moderate symptoms and 4.1% severe symptoms. The majority (72.1%) reported minimal or mild symptoms. These findings align with previous studies in similar contexts, such as the 22% PTSD prevalence in sub-Saharan Africa. Notably, despite 96% of respondents believing they had developed psychological issues post-disaster, only 4% sought professional help, indicating a significant treatment gap. The study concludes that while most survivors demonstrated resilience, a substantial minority continue to experience significant PTSD symptoms years after the disaster. Recommendations include implementing regular PTSD screening programs, developing targeted mental health interventions, and establishing community-based support groups. These findings underscore the need for long-term, culturally sensitive mental health support in disaster-affected communities and highlight the importance of addressing barriers to accessing mental health services. Keywords: Prevalence of PTSD, Survivors, Disaster, Mukuru-Sinai Informal Settlement