Elevated Suicide Risk Among Earthquake-Exposed Adolescents in Türkiye

Strategic Insights -

A recent study conducted by researchers from Harran University and Inonu University Medical Schools has shed light on the prevalence of elevated suicide risk and suicide attempts among adolescent survivors of the 2023 Kahramanmaras earthquakes in Türkiye. The study, published in the International Journal of Social Psychiatry, examined the role of mental well-being and perceived social support in mitigating suicidality among these adolescents.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study found that 47.1% of the participants had elevated suicide risk, and 9.4% had attempted suicide.
  • Multiple traumas, including witnessing deaths and spending time under rubble, were associated with elevated suicide risk.
  • Male gender, damage to one's home, residing in temporary housing, and sleep disturbances were significant predictors of elevated suicide risk.
  • Higher scores on the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) and the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-Being Scale (WEMWBS) were associated with reduced suicide risk, collectively explaining 59.9% of its variance.
  • The study suggests that targeted interventions that enhance mental well-being and strengthen social support networks are crucial for mitigating suicidality among earthquake-affected adolescents.
  • Researchers conclude that future studies should explore longitudinal effects and develop strategies to bolster resilience in this vulnerable population.
  • The study highlights the need for mental health support and intervention for adolescents affected by disasters.

Statistics:

  • 1,417 adolescents aged 14 to 18 years were included in the study.
  • The prevalence of elevated suicide risk was 47.1%.
  • The prevalence of suicide attempts was 9.4%.
  • 59.9% of the variance in suicide risk was explained by higher scores on the MSPSS and WEMWBS.
  • 71.4% of the participants were male.
  • 53.3% had experienced multiple traumas.
  • 41.6% had witnessed someone dying during the earthquake.

Sources:

  • "Elevated Suicide Risk Among Earthquake-Exposed Adolescents in T?rkiye: The Role of Mental Well-Being and Perceived Social Support" by Mehmet Emin Duken et al.
  • International Journal of Social Psychiatry, 2025:207640251377923.
  • Sage Publications Ltd, 1 Olivers Yard, 55 City Road, London EC1Y 1SP, England.