Post-traumatic stress disorder in earthquake survivors living in temporary shelter areas in Hatay central districts: a cross-sectional study.

Abstract

Background: The 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquakes resulted in extensive destruction, significant loss of life, and widespread displacement, with Hatay province being the most severely affected region. Earthquake survivors residing in temporary shelters face an elevated risk of long-term psychological consequences, particularly post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression. This study aims to assess the prevalence of PTSD and depression among earthquake survivors in temporary shelter areas within the central districts of Hatay and to identify associated risk factors contributing to PTSD.

Methods: This cross-sectional, population-based study was conducted among 400 adult earthquake survivors following the 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquakes. Participants were selected using a multistage cluster sampling method. Data on participants' sociodemographic characteristics, earthquake experiences, and psychiatric history were collected through self-report questionnaires. PTSD was assessed using the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5), while depression was evaluated using the Beck Depression Inventory.

Results: PTSD was identified in 29.0% of participants, while depression was observed in 38.8%. Key risk factors for PTSD included unemployment (OR = 2.590, p = 0.004), the loss of a family member (OR = 2.351, p = 0.017), a pre-existing psychiatric diagnosis prior to the earthquakes (OR = 2.245, p = 0.007), alcohol use (OR = 2.310, p = 0.019), smoking (OR = 1.663, p = 0.044), and experiencing a high level of fear during the earthquakes (OR = 2.151, p = 0.002).

Conclusions: These findings highlight the critical need for large-scale psychosocial support and intervention programs in the post-disaster period. Identifying risk factors for PTSD may aid in the development of targeted treatment strategies and preventive interventions for affected individuals.