Prevalence of Domestic Violence Mental Health and Emotional Stress among Displaced Females in Conflict Affected Areas North East Nigeria

Armed conflict in North East Nigeria has resulted in large-scale displacement, with women and girls bearing disproportionate psychosocial burdens. Gender-based violence, particularly intimate partner violence, often intensifies in displacement settings due to economic insecurity, disrupted social networks, and weakened protective structures. In addition, prolonged exposure to conflict and displacement exacerbates risks of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), undermining women's resilience and coping capacity. This study examined the prevalence of domestic violence, mental health challenges, and emotional stress among displaced females residing in camps and host communities across Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe States. Using a mixed-methods design, the study draws on survey data, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews with internally displaced women aged 15–49 years. The instruments used were WHO Women's Health and Domestic Violence and the Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey modules on domestic violence, the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) for depression screening, the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) for anxiety and the PTSD Checklist – Civilian Version (PCL-C) for PTSD symptoms. Quantitative data were analyzed using frequencies, percentages, means, Chi-square, and logistic regression while qualitative data were analyzed thematically. Findings reveal high levels of physical, sexual, and psychological violence, with domestic violence persisting as both a coping mechanism for male partners and a consequence of patriarchal norms that remain entrenched in conflict settings. Mental health assessments indicate significant prevalence of emotional distress, with many respondents reporting persistent fear, insomnia, low self-esteem, and trauma-related symptoms. Furthermore, the lack of access to psychosocial support and culturally sensitive mental health services worsens vulnerability and limits recovery. The study underscores the urgent need for integrated interventions that combine protection services, community-based psychosocial support, and livelihood programs to reduce exposure to violence and strengthen resilience. Policy implications highlight the role of government agencies, humanitarian actors, and community leaders in designing gender-responsive, trauma-informed strategies that safeguard the dignity and mental well-being of displaced women.