Exploring the Relationship Between Secondary Trauma, Compassion Fatigue, and Early Maladaptive Schemas in Mental Health Professionals Engaged in Post-Earthquake Interventions in Türkiye

Earthquakes are a type of trauma that directly and indirectly affect people, as experts involved in post- earthquake efforts not only work with trauma victims but also face the responsibility of safeguarding their psychological well-being. Mental health professionals, even if they have not directly experienced a traumatic event, may still exhibit symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) due to indirect exposure, such as witnessing the event or listening to the accounts of those affected. This condition, known as secondary trauma, encompasses the psychological effects experienced by individuals who work with trauma victims but have not directly experienced the traumatic event. Professionals involved in post-earthquake efforts are in contact with individuals who must cope with the consequences of earthquake, including those who have lost loved ones, been trapped under debris, have to undergo amputations, or have been displaced from disaster-stricken areas. Mental health experts in earthquake response can provide psychological assistance to these individuals. Each person has a unique trauma story that is worth listening to and understanding, and over time, mental health professionals may experience emotions, such as compassion fatigue, in addition to secondary trauma, which can make it challenging to perform their roles. This research in Türkiye explored the link between secondary trauma, compassion fatigue, and early maladaptive schemas among mental health professionals providing in-person and online support. Using a relational survey model, it was revealed that compassion fatigue and early maladaptive schemas jointly contributed to 49.7% of the secondary trauma variance. In addition, compassion fatigue predicted the secondary theme. Further studies should examine specific factors such as education, field of study, and professional experience of secondary trauma. The findings underscore the importance of creating tailored support programs and training for healthcare and mental health professionals to prevent or address compassion fatigue.