Phantom Pain, Mental Health Problems, and Depression Among Yemenis With Amputated Limbs: Victims of the Recent Conflict

Background: With the rise of global unrest and conflict around the world, the cases of amputation are increasing, leading to disruptions in mental health, social values, vitality, body image, and fitness.This study aims to evaluate the prevalence of phantom pain, mental health problems, and depression among Yemeni victims of the recent conflict with amputated limbs.Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at the King Salman Center for Relief and Humanitarian Aid in Taiz, Yemen-2023.A convenience sample of 60 adults with amputated limbs participated in this study.The general health questionnaire (GHQ-28) and Beck depression inventory-II (BDI-II) were used to collect the data.The data were analyzed using frequencies and percentages for descriptive statistics; chi-square and ANOVA were also conducted in SPSS software, version 25 at a significance level of P<0.05. Results:Regarding the demographic and clinical characteristics, the majority of conflict victims were male (88.3%), young (63.3%30 years old), and without chronic diseases (88.3%).The prevalence of phantom pain (76.7%), the probability of mental health problems (61.7%), and the rate of depression (58.3%) are high among amputees.There was a direct relationship between the presence of phantom pain and mental health problems (P=0.032),suggesting that individuals experiencing phantom pain are more likely to report mental health issues.However, no significant relationship was found between different levels of phantom pain and the probability of mental health problems or depression (P>0.05). Conclusion:Victims of conflict-related amputation face serious mental health problems associated with complex trauma and disability, which shows the strong need of these people for psychological support.Therefore, it is recommended that the rehabilitation team assess their mental status regularly, identify the people at risk, and perform the necessary interventions.