Post-Traumatic Stress and Coping Strategies for Earthquake-Related Stress Among Individuals Affected by the February 6, 2023 Earthquakes: The Case of Malatya

The earthquakes that struck Türkiye on February 6, 2023, are recorded as among the most devastating disasters in the country’s history. These earthquakes affected millions of people across eleven provinces, causing severe material and emotional losses. In this context, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and coping strategies play a critical role in understanding the mental health of earthquake survivors. This study examines the levels of PTSD and the coping strategies employed by survivors of the earthquakes in Türkiye, considering various factors. The study sample comprises 705 participants who experienced the earthquake in Malatya, including 547 women and 158 men. The Earthquake Post-Traumatic Stress Level Assessment Scale and the Earthquake Stress Coping Strategies Scale were used to collect data. The findings indicate that women (x̄ = 71.5) experienced higher levels of post-traumatic stress than men (x̄ = 65.2). Additionally, factors such as material losses, income levels, and age significantly influenced trauma levels. Women (x̄ = 16.2) were also found to use religious coping strategies more frequently than men (x̄ = 14.6). Coping strategies varied by age, occupation, income, marital status, and experiences of material loss. Individual characteristics, including gender and socioeconomic status, were observed to influence both trauma levels and coping strategies. In conclusion, the study emphasizes the critical importance of considering demographic differences to mitigate the adverse effects of earthquakes and to ensure the provision of appropriate psychosocial support.