When the War Never Ends: Mental health and global priorities

Since its inclusion in DSM-III in 1980, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is the most prevalent disorder in the aftermath of traumatic experiences such as wars. Notwithstanding the increased knowledge of its symptoms, trajectory, treatment, and care, the concept of PTSD, mostly shaped by Western scholarship, continues to be contentious. Yet, there may be distinctive features in the context and expressions of psychological reactions to traumatic events in both the West and other traditional cultures that may be different with wider implications for symptomology, diagnosis, and interventions for treatment and care of survivors. In many theatres of wars in Africa, where protracted traumatic events are dominant, a more contextualized and nuanced understanding of PTSD, resilience, and traumatic reactions, may provide better interventions and treatment outcomes.

In his talk, «When the War Never Ends: Mental Health Challenges and Global Priorities in Conflict-Affected Areas,» Professor Kennedy Amone-P’Olak will delve deeper into these topics. Amone-P’Olak is a psychologist and professor of psycho-traumatology at Kyambogo University in Uganda. He has taught at several universities in Uganda, Botswana, and South Africa. His primary research areas include psycho-traumatology, childhood adversity and early adult health outcomes, substance abuse, and mental health literacy.

Following the lecture, there will be a panel discussion on progress, challenges, and the way forward in mental health and psychosocial support in conflict-affected areas and humanitarian crises.Lunch will take place after the seminar.