Psychological well-being of search and rescue personnel involved in the Kahramanmaraş earthquakes: An evaluation in terms of resilience

Abstract

This study investigates the psychological challenges, stressors, and coping strategies of disaster rescue workers involved in the February 6, 2023, earthquakes in Kahramanmaraş Turkey. Using a qualitative phenomenological design, data were gathered through semi-structured interviews with 21 volunteers. Themes explored include trauma exposure, coping strategies, psychosocial support, and burnout. Thematic analysis identified three core themes: (1) Psychosocial Effects of Disaster Response, such as mental health impacts and social disruption; (2) Psychological Resilience and Coping Mechanisms, including resilience development and specific coping behaviors; and (3) Traumatic Experiences, involving direct trauma exposure and psychological intrusions. Participants, averaging 36.4 years in age and 9.2 years of experience, displayed notable resilience despite severe trauma. The findings highlight the critical role of individual coping skills and collective supports such as team cohesion and empathy. The study concludes that promoting disaster workers’ mental health requires integrated emotional, social, and organizational support to enhance resilience and recovery.