V. Kovess‑Masfety· A. Sabawoon· K. Keyes · E. Karam

Abstract
Objectives To estimate the prevalence and demographic, psychiatric, and trauma-focused correlates of psychotic experiences
(PEs) in the Afghan general population.
Methods Data were drawn from a cross-sectional household survey implemented in eight regions of Afghanistan (N=4445).
The CIDI structured instrument was administered to adults to assess psychiatric disorders and psychotic experiences; life
events and PTSD were assessed using validated instruments. Weighted multivariate models integrated socio-demographics,
regions, traumas as determinants of PE.
Results PEs were frequently reported in the Afghan population: 27.50% of the population reported a lifetime PE. PEs were
more common among specifc ethnic groups, and were associated with lower income in adjusted regression models. PEs were
associated with mental health problems including major depressive disorders (OR=3.43), PTSD (OR=5.08), generalized
anxiety (OR=4.2); lifetime suicidal attempts (OR 6.04), lifetime suicidal thoughts (OR=3.42), addiction (OR=2.18); and
psychological distress and impairment due to mental health (OR=2.95 and 2.46, respectively).
Conclusion Psychotic experiences in the Afghan general population confrm general population fndings in other countries,
that psychotic experiences are common and associated with economic and social marginalization, and part of a continuum
of mental health problems experienced in populations. Eforts to reduce and treat psychotic experiences within a broad array
of psychiatric conditions are needed.

Prevalence, risk factors, and comorbidities of psychotic experiences in Afghanistan: a highly stressful environment

Psychotic experiences · Trauma · Afghanistan · Suicidal behavior · Transcultural