Unveiling Hidden Trauma: Age-Specific Acute Stress Responses in Children and Adolescents after the 2023 Turkey Earthquakes.

Abstract

This study aims to examine the acute stress responses in children and adolescents following these earthquakes, focusing on developmental differences across age groups. This study included 70 children and adolescents aged 2-18, who experienced the earthquakes and were recruited from a specialized child and adolescent disaster outpatient clinic between February 8 and March 9, 2023. The sample was divided into three age groups: preschool (2-6 years), school-age (6-11 years), and adolescent (11-18 years). The Acute Stress Disorder Short Scale -Child Age 11-17 (NSESSS) was used to assess acute stress symptoms in adolescents. Sociodemographic data and earthquake-related experiences were also collected. Of the 70 participants, 11.4% met the diagnostic criteria for acute stress disorder (ASD). The prevalence of ASD was 5.8% in preschoolers, 9.3% in school-aged children, and 16% in adolescents. The most common symptoms varied by age group, with arousal symptoms being the most frequent across all groups. Sleep problems were prevalent, affecting 70.6% of preschoolers, 57.1% of school-aged children, and 76% of adolescents. The study highlighted the importance of early identification and intervention for psychological distress following natural disasters. The findings underscore the acute mental health impact of earthquakes on children and adolescents, revealing significant symptomatology even in the absence of formal ASD diagnosis. Tailored interventions considering developmental stages are essential for effective support and recovery. Further research with larger samples is needed to deepen understanding and improve post-disaster mental health strategies for young populations.