The Relationship Between Trauma Level, Anxiety, Stress, and Coping of Earthquake-Stricken University Students

This study aimed to examine the relationships between post-earthquake trauma, anxiety, stress, and stress coping strategies among university students who survived the Kahramanmaraş earthquakes.

This cross-sectional study included 384 university students who survived the Kahramanmaraş earthquakes. Data were collected using a personal information form and standardized scales assessing post-earthquake trauma, anxiety, stress, and stress coping strategies. Descriptive statistics, group comparisons, and correlation analyses were performed.

Among the participants, 35.7% had lost a relative, 47.8% had lost a friend, 10.0% reported that their homes were destroyed, 54.0% reported home damage, and 3.1% had been trapped under rubble. A strong positive correlation was found between post-earthquake trauma and anxiety scores (r = 0.714). Participants who had lost a family member, relative, or friend had significantly higher trauma and anxiety scores than those who had not. Trauma scores were also significantly higher among those who were injured, trapped under rubble, or involved in rescue efforts. Significant relationships were found between post-earthquake trauma, anxiety, stress, and stress coping strategies.

Earthquake-related experiences were associated with increased trauma, anxiety, and stress and with stress coping strategies. Early psychological assessment and psychosocial support may help reduce the psychological effects of earthquakes on university students.