Türk Nöroşirürji Dergisi 2023 , Vol 33 , Num 2
Understanding Disasters and Mass Trauma within the Context of an Earthquake
Memduha AYDIN1
1Selçuk Üniversitesi Tıp Fakültesi Hastanesi, Psikiyatri Anabilim Dalı, Konya An earthquake is a disaster that radically changes our lives with its devastating effects. The destruction and loss experienced have a serious impact on the psychological health of the people. Therefore, the approach to psychological traumas after the earthquake is very important. In this article, the massive traumas in the Kahramanmaraş-centered earthquake with a high level of destruction, which affected many cities where 15 million people live, were discussed. The aim was to evaluate the post-earthquake situation from different aspects. It is planned to convey other important elements such as psychological effects in mass traumas and disasters, early psychosocial interventions, psychological first aid principles, the support-treatment approach, forensic issues, and burnout that should be considered in the approach to trauma related to disasters. Thus, in mass traumas, the aim should be to raise awareness by providing information on important issues that concern not only the psychosocial support team but also all health workers, and to alleviate the burden of the disaster on the society in solidarity. Anahtar Kelimeler : Disaster, Trauma, Psychosocial support, Psychological first aid