Determining the impact of earthquakes on university students' hope and anxiety levels

Abstract

ObjectivesThe seismic disturbances in Kahramanmaraş in February 2023 and their social effects highlight the potential adverse impacts on mental well-being, particularly anxiety and hopelessness. This study aimed to evaluate the hope and anxiety levels of university students studying health education and investigate the consequences of earthquakes on these emotions. MethodsA total of 398 students who were studying at Karabük University Vocational School of Health Services in May 2023 were selected through convenience sampling. Participants were assessed using the "Student Information Form," "State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI)," and "Dispositional Hope Scale (DHS)." Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) and reliability analysis were used to assess the scales' internal consistency. Descriptive statistics were used to determine anxiety and hope levels and independent t-tests were used to compare group differences. ResultsStudents who experienced an earthquake showed higher state anxiety (0.75 ± 0.12) than those who did not (0.71 ± 0.12). Additionally, students who suffered material (0.77 ± 0.12) and moral (0.76 ± 0.10) damage had significantly higher state anxiety levels (p < 0.05). There was also a statistically significant but weak negative correlation between DHS and state anxiety. ConclusionsThe findings of this study indicate that exposure to earthquakes is correlated with an increase in state anxiety levels, while higher levels of hope are associated with a decrease in state anxiety. This study provides valuable insights into the effects of earthquakes on students' mental well-being and emphasizes the significance of integrating the therapeutic potential of hope into their training programs.