Predictors of Persistent Post-Traumatic Stress Symptoms After 2023 Maras Earthquake: The Impact of Gender, Loss, and Coping Strategies

The objective of this study was to ascertain the prevalence of trauma symptoms in individuals residing within the seismic region 18 months after the February 6th 2023, Maras earthquake, and to examine the factors contributing to these symptoms. The study included 339 participants who experienced the earthquake. The participants were administered sociodemographic data form, Traumatic Stress Symptom Checklist (TSSC), Coping with Earthquake Stress Scale (CESS), and Psychological Well-Being Scale (PWBS). According to the TSSC, 20.1% of the 339 participants were determined to have probable PTSD (pPTSD). In the pPTSD group, rate of destruction in the home, rate of women, rate of loss of life in relatives, rate of property loss, and rate of receiving psychiatric support were significantly higher. The pPTSD group demonstrated significantly lower positive reappraisal, seeking social support, and PWBS scores compared to the non-PTSD group. TSSC scores were negatively correlated with sub-scores of the CESS and PWBS among all participants. Regression analyses revealed that the presence of long-term pPTSD was predicted with being female, loss of life in relatives, property loss, and the need for psychiatric support. Additionally, positive reappraisal and seeking social support coping mechanisms were shown to decrease the risk of developing pPTSD. Current research suggest that traumatic symptoms may persist long after major natural disasters. Consequently, the provision of psychological support services, the enhancement of social support networks, and the dissemination of stress management methods following disasters such as earthquakes should be sustained over an extended period in high-risk regions. It is anticipated that the findings of this study will serve as a guide for researchers, clinicians, and policy-makers, facilitating the development of effective strategies for the management of post-disaster mental health needs.