The Possible Relationship Between Earthquakes and Generalized Anxiety Disorder Searches in Turkey: A Google Trends Analysis

Abstract Objective Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) affects daily life with persistent anxiety and physical symptoms. Genetic, environmental, and neurobiological factors contribute to its development. Natural disasters can increase the risk of anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder. The earthquakes in Turkey on February 6, 2023, had widespread psychological effects. This study examines how the earthquakes influenced Google Trends searches related to GAD. Materials and Methods This study analyzed Google Trends search volumes (0-100 range) for 30 terms related to GAD from 02.01.2022 to 28.12.2024 in Turkey. Results with a p-value below 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results All search terms reached a peak (100 points) at least once. The highest-volume terms were stress (S:11885), palpitations (S:11553), and insomnia (S:11447). Post-earthquake, the average search volumes for 7 terms (palpitations, worry, tension, muscle tension, inability to focus, stress, and sweating) increased compared to pre-earthquake. The average search volume was 49.04 before the earthquake and 45.14 after. The pre-earthquake search volumes were significantly higher (p=0.002). Before the earthquake, the highest terms were anxiety disorder (78.08), shortness of breath (75.49), and stress (75.42). After the earthquake, the highest were stress (76.70), palpitations (75.32), insomnia (73.17), and anxiety disorder (71.22). Conclusion Natural disasters can increase anxiety symptoms, which can be tracked via digital platforms. These findings offer valuable insights for analyzing psychological effects and planning post-disaster mental health services. Keywords: Anxiety, Earthquakes, Anxiety Disorders, Search Engine