The impact of Kahramanmaraş (2023) earthquake on adolescents: Exploring psychological impact, suicide possibility and future expectations.

Abstract

Earthquakes and other disasters caused by natural hazards have a significant impact on the mental health and well-being of children and adolescents. This study aimed to investigate the psychological symptoms, suicide probability, and future expectations among adolescents affected by the Kahramanmaraş-centered earthquake in Türkiye. A total of 704 individuals participated in the study. We conducted a cross-sectional study using the Brief Symptom Inventory, Suicide Probability Scale and Future Expectation Scale. The mean age of participants was 15.27 ± 1.39. Participants lost up to 10 of their relatives and up to 4 of their nuclear families due to the earthquake. The study showed a strong positive correlation between psychological symptoms and suicide probability and a strong negative correlation between psychological symptoms and future expectations among adolescents. Additionally, losing family members or relatives was associated with increased psychological problems. Earthquake-related issues such as lack of food, shelter and security, and education disruption should be addressed to mitigate the mental health impact of the disaster. Additionally, mental health and psychosocial support services should be made available for adolescents and their families in the earthquake-affected regions.