Factors Affecting the Mental Health of Youth After the Great Kahramanmaras Earthquake Disaster

Abstract

This study aims to determine the extent of the psychological effects of the Kahramanmaraş earthquake disaster, which is widely regarded as one of the most significant disasters of the century, on young people based on their direct or indirect exposure and to investigate the impact of these issues on life satisfaction. Data were collected from 337 individuals who were continuing their advanced education at a state university in Turkey, using a demographic information form, life satisfaction scale and Depression Anxiety Stress Scales 21. In the analysis of the data, t-test, Pearson correlation test, ANOVA and multiple regression analysis were employed. The results of the analyses indicated that as the intensity of exposure to disaster news increased, the stress, depression, and anxiety levels of the participants also increased. Individuals who experienced the earthquake personally and participated in volunteer aid activities demonstrated higher depression and anxiety scores and DASS21 scale total scores than those who did not directly experience the earthquake but followed the news and those whose relatives experienced the earthquake. There was no significant difference in the intensity of following earthquake news between men and women among the participants. However, it was determined that the intensity of following earthquake news from media and social media tools positively and significantly predicted the life satisfaction of the participants. These findings provide insights for future mental health interventions and social work practices for young people affected by the earthquake.