Kiliç C, Aydin I, Taşkintuna N, Ozçürümez G, Kurt G, Eren E, Lale T, Ozel S, Zileli L. Predictors of psychological distress in survivors of the 1999 earthquakes in Turkey: effects of relocation after the disaster.
Acta Psychiatr Scand 2006;
114:194-202. [PMID:
16889590 DOI:
10.1111/j.1600-0447.2006.00786.x]
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE
Relocations after disasters are known to cause added distress in survivors. This study examined the effects of migration and other factors on psychological status of survivors 4 years after the two severe earthquakes in Turkey.
METHOD
Five hundred and twenty-six adult survivors of the 1999 earthquakes currently living in Ankara were given self-report measures assessing traumatic stress, depression, earthquake experience and social support.
RESULTS
The rates of current post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression were 25% and 11%, respectively. Although both traumatic stress and depression factors were predicted by some demographic and trauma severity variables, relocation status predicted depression but not traumatic stress.
CONCLUSION
The rates of psychological distress were higher than expected in a city considered to be safe in terms of earthquake risk. Relocation after the disaster may increase psychological distress by disrupting the social network.
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