Examination of posttraumatic stress symptoms and posttraumatic growth after high-magnitude earthquakes in Kahramanmaras.

OBJECTIVE

Major earthquakes often cause extensive physical, emotional, and social disruptions, potentially triggering posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) as well as posttraumatic growth (PTG). This study examined PTSS and PTG among adults affected by two high-magnitude earthquakes (Mw 7.7 and 7.6) that struck the Kahramanmaras region of Türkiye, a seismically active area located along a major fault line.

METHOD: This cross-sectional and correlational study was conducted from April to July 2023 and involved 178 participants living in temporary dormitory shelters. Data collection included a personal information form, the Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms Scale, and the Posttraumatic Growth Inventory.

RESULTS

More than half the participants reported severe fear (53.1%), loss of relatives (50.3%), relatives who were injured (53.1%), or financial loss due to the earthquake (50.8%). The most commonly reported PTSS symptom cluster was hyperarousal. Mean PTSS and PTG scores were 84.51 ± 22.24 and 60.73 ± 22.19, respectively. Regression analysis showed that intense fear during the earthquake significantly predicted higher PTSS scores, while a history of preexisting mental illness was associated with lower PTSS. No significant correlation was found between PTSS and PTG, suggesting these outcomes may develop independently in the early stages of disaster recovery.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings underscore the need for psychosocial support tailored to postearthquake circumstances, particularly given the reported high PTSS levels. Larger scale research is recommended to refine these insights and to guide targeted interventions. Mental health professionals (i.e., psychiatrists, psychiatric nurses, and psychologists) play pivotal roles in delivering comprehensive care. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved).