Group EMDR therapy for disaster-affected adolescents: evaluating effectiveness and navigating implementation challenges in PTSD, depression, and anxiety.

BACKGROUND

Although not all adolescents experience post-traumatic stress disorder following natural disasters, this population remains highly susceptible to trauma-related symptoms due to developmental and neurobiological vulnerability factors after being exposed to natural disasters.

OBJECTIVE

The present study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) group therapy on adolescents affected by the February 6 earthquakes in Hatay, focusing on post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSD), anxiety disorders, depression, and resilience levels.

METHODS

A total of 120 adolescents aged 13 and 14 years from earthquake affected regions participated in a convergent mixed-methods study, including 62 participants in the study group and 58 participants in the control group. completed the Revised Child Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Symptom Scale, the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale The Revised Child Anxiety and Depression Participants Scale. Quantitative data were analyzed using bivariate correlations and linear regression. Qualitative responses to open-ended questions about perceived barriers and facilitators were analyzed using thematic content analysis.

RESULTS

This study demonstrated that EMDR group therapy was effective in reducing trauma symptoms, alleviating depression and anxiety, and increasing psychological resilience in adolescents experiencing post-earthquake trauma. Quantitative analyses revealed significant reductions in PTSD, anxiety, and depression scores, while qualitative analyses indicated that rebuilding a sense of security, group support, and creative expression (drawing, safe place exercises) played a healing role.

CONCLUSIONS

EMDR group therapy plays an effective role in reducing post-traumatic stress and improving emotional regulation skills in post-disaster adolescents. Qualitative data demonstrate that the "safe place" exercise and family support play a fundamental role in rebuilding a sense of trust. These results demonstrate the centrality of emotional safety and group-based support mechanisms in the post-disaster psychological recovery process. The findings support the potential of EMDR as a trauma-healing tool not only at the individual but also at the community level.