This research brief examines the enduring mental health effects of war and displacement among older adults in northern and central Vietnam, drawing on data from the 2018 Vietnam Health and Aging Study, which surveyed 2,447 participants. Contrary to conventional assumptions, the analysis finds that displacement alone does not predict post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); rather, it is exposure to war-related casualties during displacement that has the strongest long-term psychological impact.

The brief traces causal pathways linking bombing, military service, and traumatic war experiences to PTSD, while highlighting cultural barriers to discuss mental health and the lack of accessible trauma services for older Vietnamese.The report provides recommendations to strengthen trauma-informed care, expand community-based mental health initiatives, and enhance protections for civilians affected by contemporary conflicts.

Access: Open

Authors: Yvette Young, Kim Korinek, and Nguyen Huu Minh

Affiliation: University of Utah, Institute for Family and Gender Studies, and Vietnam Health and Aging Study

Date: 10/02/2023

Language: English

Country: Vietnam