Investigation of the relationship between physical activity levels and mental health in adolescents after February 6th earthquakes

This study examines the relationship between physical activity levels and mental health in adolescents following an earthquake, focusing on community-based rehabilitation and interventions. A total of 389 adolescents (ages 11–17) participated in the current study. Post-traumatic stress (PTS) was assessed using DSM-5 Post-traumatic Stress Symptom Severity Scale, while depression and anxiety were evaluated using DSM-5 Level 2 Depression and Anxiety scales. Physical activity levels were measured with the Physical Activity Scale for Adolescents. Among participants, 48.3% were female and 51.7% were male. Strong positive correlations were found between Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) severity and both depression (r = 0.738) and anxiety (r = 0.723), as well as between depression and anxiety (r = 0.754) (p = 0.001 for all). No significant relationship was observed between PTSD severity and physical activity or age (p > 0.05). A weak negative relationship existed between depression and physical activity (r=-0.228, p = 0.012), while a positive correlation was found between depression and age (r = 0.282, p = 0.001). Adolescents face significant psychological effects after earthquakes. Physical activity levels may decline due to reduced motivation and opportunities. Post-traumatic stress can also cause depression and anxiety in adolescents after a disaster such as an earthquake. Therefore, it’s essential to encourage physical activity and implement appropriate programs in disaster-affected regions.