Prevalence and determinants of posttraumatic stress in adolescents following an earthquake

Abstract

Context: The 2016 Aceh earthquake causes a significant mental health impact in adolescents. However, the prevalence and determinants have never been reported. Aims: The study aimed to estimate the prevalence rate and determinants of posttraumatic stress symptoms in adolescents following an earthquake. Settings and Design: This cross-sectional study was conducted in Pidie Jaya district approximately 6 months following the earthquake. Materials and Methods: The Trauma Screening Questionnaire (TSQ) was distributed to adolescents living around the earthquake-affected area. Statistical Analysis: The Chi-square test and binomial logistic regression were performed using GNU PSPP statistical software. Results: The prevalence of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) was 47%, and the mean score of TSQ was 5.11 (standard deviation = 2.3). The presence of PTSD was associated with gender and age (P = 0.001). Logistic regression analysis confirmed that gender, being injured, witnessing someone injured, feeling stressed after the earthquake, and feeling scared of staying inside a building following the earthquake were independently and significantly associated with PTSD (P = 0.001). Conclusion: The prevalence of PTSD at 6 months following an earthquake is relatively high, and many factors are associated with the presence of PTSD.