Post-earthquake trauma symptoms and their association with positive mental health among earthquake survivors in Türkiye

Abstract Background Post-earthquake trauma symptoms are among the most common mental health outcomes following large-scale natural disasters. This study aimed to determine the level of post-earthquake trauma symptoms and examine their association with positive mental health among earthquake survivors in Türkiye. Method This cross-sectional study was conducted in Malatya, one of the provinces most affected by the February 6, 2023 earthquakes, between May 30 and July 25, 2023. The sample consisted of 416 adults who experienced the earthquake. Data were collected using a Personal Information Form, the Scale for Determining the Level of Post-Earthquake Trauma, and the Positive Mental Health Scale. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent samples t-test, Pearson correlation analysis, and linear regression analysis. Results Significant differences in post-earthquake trauma symptoms and positive mental health were observed according to demographic characteristics ( p < 0.05). Women, individuals with higher education levels, and those who experienced property or financial loss reported higher levels of trauma symptoms. A statistically significant negative correlation was found between positive mental health and post-earthquake trauma symptoms ( r = -0.413, p < 0.001). Linear regression analysis indicated that gender, property/financial loss, and positive mental health were significantly associated with trauma symptoms. Conclusions The findings suggest that positive mental health is inversely associated with post-earthquake trauma symptoms and is associated with lower levels of in post-disaster psychological outcomes. Identifying vulnerable groups and strengthening positive mental health through community-based interventions may contribute to reducing the psychological impact of disasters. These results highlight the importance of integrating mental health promotion strategies into post-disaster public health planning.