Psychological Trauma of Terrorism and Armed Conflict In Jammu And Kashmir: A Comprehensive Analysis

Abstract

The protracted conflict in Jammu and Kashmir has resulted in widespread psychological trauma affecting civilian populations across multiple generations. This study examines the mental health consequences of terrorism and armed conflict on Kashmiri residents, with particular focus on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety. The research hypothesizes that prolonged exposure to conflict-related violence significantly correlates with elevated rates of psychiatric morbidity among the population. A mixed-methods approach incorporating quantitative surveys and qualitative narrative analysis was employed to assess trauma prevalence and manifestations. Data reveal that 41% of the adult population exhibits depressive symptoms, 26% shows anxiety symptoms, and 19% demonstrates PTSD symptoms, with over 70,000 casualties since 1989. Findings indicate that collective trauma has permeated daily life, affecting social cohesion, family dynamics, and community resilience. Women, youth, and conflict-exposed individuals demonstrate significantly higher vulnerability. The study underscores urgent need for culturally appropriate, decentralized mental health interventions and trauma-informed care systems tailored to Kashmir's unique socio-political context to address this unprecedented psychological crisis.